How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Oswego
Consider each moving company's cost, services, licensing, and customer reviews before deciding.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Oswego moving companies charge $117 per hour on average. The typical local move costs $4,138 total for two-bedroom homes. Factors that affect your actual cost include the season, any additional tasks you need done, move distance, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that detail the total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when looking for a mover. You can identify moving companies with positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, social media, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Oswego must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are making a short-haul move that's purely within Illinois, your mover must have a Household Goods License from the Illinois Commerce Commission.
The requirements are a bit different 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 find a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assessing whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Compile a list of any basic or add-on services you might need and take a full inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Discuss any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative in order to determine if the company is able to meet your particular needs.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include these moving services in the base price for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Ensure that your moving company is informed of any extra services you need in the quote process. Additional fees may apply for these services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Oswego, IL
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within Oswego.
Schedule an Early Move
Oswego traffic during rush hour is often congested. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic will typically lead to higher costs if they charge by the hour. Planning your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before traffic peaks and make the trip to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Oswego's hottest time of the year. Moving during this time can slow or worsen your moving process, especially if you begin your search for a mover too late. The high demand could lead to limited availability with your desired mover. You should be able to book the moving company you desire by reaching out to movers at least eight weeks before your move. However, remember that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most movers won't carry items that haven't been packed by the scheduled moving time. Begin packing about six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Oswego, IL
Movers in Oswego cost $2,605 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,761 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 | $2,605 | $2,921 | $6,761 |
250-999 miles | $3,216 | $3,527 | $10,276 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,249 | $4,068 | $10,468 |
2,500+ miles | $3,134 | $5,125 | $12,588 |
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