How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Richmond
Consider each moving company's customer reviews, licensing, cost, and services before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
A local move costs $49 per hour on average. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs approximately $4,281 in total. Your move date, home size, move distance, and any additional services you need will affect your actual cost.
You should get quotes from at least three movers in your area. Request written estimates that break down the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays a crucial role for moving companies. Visit platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and social media to gain insights into customer experiences with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Richmond must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're making a short-haul move that's purely within Indiana, choose a moving company with Operating Authority from the Indiana Department of Revenue.
The requirements differ if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company 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 see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover provides the services that meet your expectations as you receive quotes. Make a list of any services you may require and take a comprehensive inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Tell the moving company if you have any specific needs to assess if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include these services for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure that your moving company is informed of any special services you require in 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 Richmond, IN
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Richmond.
Schedule an Early Move
Richmond traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is often hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more difficult than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic will typically lead to higher costs if they charge by the hour. We advise scheduling before morning rush hour, which makes sure the movers avoid the traffic and complete the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Richmond. This can negatively impact your move. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to secure the moving company you want. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only transport items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival. You should start packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes every day to avoid rushing on the day of your move. Your movers may have a few extra boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t count on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Richmond, IN
Movers in Richmond cost $2,654 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,365 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 | $2,654 | $3,191 | $7,365 |
250-999 miles | $3,268 | $3,826 | $10,820 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,309 | $4,382 | $11,271 |
2,500+ miles | $3,238 | $5,452 | $13,419 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Richmond
What is the average cost of living in Richmond?
Does Richmond have good schools?
How much do movers cost in Richmond?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
When is the best time to move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.