How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Elgin
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in Elgin.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Elgin charge an average hourly rate of $84. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,619 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include move distance, the season, your home size, and any additional tasks you need done.
We suggest obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Don't forget to request written estimates. These should detail the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when looking into moving companies. Visit websites like social media, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Yelp to gain insights into customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Elgin must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Illinois city to another, your mover must have a Household Goods License from the Illinois Commerce Commission.
If you're moving to or from another state, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to check a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose can deliver the services that meet your expectations while obtaining quotes. Take a full inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note down any essential or additional services you might require. Tell the moving company if you have any particular conditions or needs to assess if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often 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 that your moving company is aware of any extra 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 Elgin, IL
Here are some additional tips to consider when moving in Elgin.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Elgin are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. You can avoid this by booking movers several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Elgin, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can worsen your move. You should be able to book the moving company you desire by reaching out to companies well in advance. However, remember that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
We recommend you start packing around six weeks in advance to prevent rushing to pack when moving day comes. Packing a few boxes each day can get the task done without overwhelming you. Most moving companies only transport items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before they arrive.
How Much do Movers Cost in Elgin, IL
Movers in Elgin cost $2,771 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $8,799 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 | $2,771 | $3,831 | $8,799 |
250-999 miles | $3,392 | $4,536 | $12,114 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,451 | $5,127 | $13,175 |
2,500+ miles | $3,486 | $6,230 | $15,392 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Elgin
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