How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Lafayette
A few factors to consider when choosing a moving company include licensing, cost, services offered, and customer reviews.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Lafayette is $60. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,051 in total. Your actual costs will vary depending on the season, move distance, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and your home size.
We advise obtaining quotes from at least 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. Keep the estimate from your mover and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies depend on solid customer reviews. You can find moving companies with positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, social media, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and Google Reviews.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Lafayette must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Indiana, choose a moving company with Operating Authority from the Indiana Department of Revenue.
If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is essential during the quote process. Complete an extensive inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note down any basic or add-on services you may need. Inform the moving company about any specific conditions or needs to assess whether the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes the following services for basic moves:
- 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 require in the quote process. Services that can 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 Lafayette, IN
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Lafayette move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Lafayette are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. Planning your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before rush hour and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is limited.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Lafayette, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can delay or worsen your move. Plan ahead and book your desired moving company at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential challenges the summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Begin packing approximately six weeks before your move to avoid rushing at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process more manageable. Most movers won't transport items that aren't packed when your move is supposed to start.
How Much do Movers Cost in Lafayette, IN
Movers in Lafayette cost $2,575 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,394 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 | $2,575 | $2,757 | $6,394 |
250-999 miles | $3,185 | $3,345 | $9,944 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,212 | $3,877 | $9,980 |
2,500+ miles | $3,070 | $4,926 | $12,083 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Lafayette
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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
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