How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Palm Harbor
Consider each company's cost, licensing, customer reviews, and services before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Palm Harbor is $70. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs around $4,103 overall. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional services you need will contribute to your actual cost.
We advise obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Always get written estimates, which should break down your total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking into moving companies. You can identify movers that prioritize positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and social media.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Palm Harbor must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your moving company must have an active registration with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). You can verify the company has an active license using its License Lookup tool.
The requirements differ if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can find a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover offers the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Conduct a thorough inventory of your home before getting quotes and note any basic or add-on services you might require. Tell your moving company representative regarding any special conditions or needs to evaluate whether the company can provide suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include these services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Ensure that your moving company is aware of any special services you require during the quote process. Services that lead to higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Palm Harbor, FL
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Palm Harbor move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Palm Harbor are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. We advise scheduling before morning rush hour, which guarantees the movers avoid heavy traffic and wrap up the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest moving period, which falls between May and September, coincides with the hot summer temperatures in Palm Harbor. This can slow or negatively impact your moving experience. If you plan far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with the mover you prefer regardless of the month. However, the movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
We recommend you start packing about six weeks before your move to prevent stressing over last-minute packing on your moving day. Spending time packing a few boxes each day can get the task done without overwhelming you. Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed by the scheduled moving time.
How Much do Movers Cost in Palm Harbor, FL
Movers in Palm Harbor cost $2,593 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,613 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
| Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 250 miles | $2,593 | $2,855 | $6,613 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,204 | $3,453 | $10,142 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,234 | $3,991 | $10,271 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,108 | $5,045 | $12,384 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Palm Harbor
What is the average cost of living in Palm Harbor?
Does Palm Harbor have good schools?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Palm Harbor for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
When is the best time to move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
