How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Fort Wayne
Consider each moving company's customer reviews, cost, licensing, and services before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Fort Wayne charge an average hourly rate of $63. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,235 in total. Your actual cost will vary depending on move distance, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, the season, and your home size.
We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Don't forget to request written estimates. These should provide a breakdown of the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate readily available until the moving process is finished to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays an important role for moving companies. Visit platforms like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews to learn about the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Fort Wayne must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Indiana city to another, choose a mover that carries Operating Authority from the Indiana Department of Revenue.
If you're moving across states, 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 look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is essential during the quote process. Get ready for the quote process by taking a detailed inventory of your possessions and noting any services you may need. Share any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative to assess if the company can accommodate your specific requirements.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often include the following services in the starting cost:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need special services from your moving company, share these during the quote process. Services that can contribute 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 Fort Wayne, IN
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Fort Wayne.
Schedule an Early Move
Fort Wayne traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously congested. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic during your local move will typically lead to higher costs if they charge by the hour. Planning your move for the early morning ensures that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Fort Wayne. This can slow or negatively impact your move. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to lock in your desired moving company. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. Begin packing about six weeks before your move so you can avoid rushing at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Fort Wayne, IN
Movers in Fort Wayne cost $2,638 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,171 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 | $2,638 | $3,104 | $7,171 |
250-999 miles | $3,252 | $3,729 | $10,645 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,290 | $4,281 | $11,013 |
2,500+ miles | $3,205 | $5,347 | $13,152 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Fort Wayne
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