How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Atlanta
Consider each moving company's customer reviews, licensing, services, and cost before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Atlanta is $71. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs approximately $4,209 overall. Your actual costs will vary depending on any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, the season, move distance, and your home size.
You should get quotes from three or more movers in your area. Request written estimates that detail the total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your moving company's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays a crucial role for moving companies. Take time to read customer reviews on websites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Google Reviews, and Yelp to find movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Atlanta must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Georgia, your chosen mover must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Motor Carrier division.
The requirements change 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 carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover provides the services that align with your expectations when requesting quotes. Create a list of any services you might need and take inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Tell the moving company if you have any particular needs to determine whether the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following services in the standard price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure you inform your mover of any special services you need while going through the quote process. The following services may result in higher pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Atlanta, GA
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Atlanta.
Schedule an Early Move
Atlanta usually gets hectic during rush hour. Maneuvering through it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may result in delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by arranging your move several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the hot summer temperatures in Atlanta. This can negatively impact your moving experience. If you plan in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the month. However, your movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
You should start packing around six weeks in advance. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing on the day of your move. Your movers may have a few extra boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t depend on it. Most movers only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival.
How Much do Movers Cost in Atlanta, GA
Movers in Atlanta cost $2,629 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,061 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 | $2,629 | $3,055 | $7,061 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,242 | $3,675 | $10,546 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,279 | $4,224 | $10,867 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,186 | $5,288 | $13,001 |
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