How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Atlanta
Consider each company's services, licensing, customer reviews, and cost before deciding.
Determine Your Budget
A local move costs $71 per hour on average. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs approximately $4,209 in total. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional services you need will contribute to your actual cost.
We recommend obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. It's essential to get written estimates, which should outline your total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is important for all moving companies. You can find moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, social media, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Atlanta must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're 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 differ if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a mover 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 check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose can provide the services that meet your expectations while obtaining quotes. Create a list of any basic or add-on services you might need and take a full inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Furthermore, inform your moving company representative about any extra services you may need to gauge the company's capability to offer adequate service.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes these services for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need additional services from your moving company, inform them of these during the quote process. Services that can lead to higher pricing are:
- 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
Here are some additional tips to consider for your Atlanta move.
Schedule an Early Move
Atlanta sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be difficult in a moving truck. Getting stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. Try to plan your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Atlanta's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, especially if you begin your search for a mover too close to your move. The increased demand could make it more difficult to secure your desired mover. Plan ahead and secure your desired mover at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential difficulties the hot summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
We recommend you begin packing around six weeks in advance to avoid rushing to pack on your moving day. Packing some items each day can get the task done without overwhelming you. Most movers won't move items that aren't packed by the time your move begins.
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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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Atlanta
What is the average cost of living in Atlanta?
What is the average commute time in Atlanta?
How much would a Atlanta move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
What items should I move myself?
- Art pieces
- Cash
- Family photo albums and other cherished photographs
- Firearms
- Hazardous items like pesticides and gasoline
- Jewelry
- Personal documents
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.