How to Choose the Best Local Mover in West Lafayette
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in West Lafayette.
Determine Your Budget
The average cost of a local mover in West Lafayette is $43 per hour. The overall cost adds up to $4,281 for a two-bedroom move. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional tasks you need the movers to do will contribute to your actual cost.
You should get quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that detail the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate handy until the move is done to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when evaluating moving companies. You can find movers that prioritize positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like social media, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in West Lafayette must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Indiana, choose a moving company that carries 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
Assess whether the mover you chose can provide the services that meet your expectations when requesting quotes. Prepare for the quote process by taking a detailed inventory of your home and noting any services you may need. Furthermore, notify your moving company representative about any special conditions or specific needs you may have to gauge the company's ability to provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers deliver the following basic services as a part of their base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When requesting a quote from your moving company, disclose any services you require. These services may lead to higher pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in West Lafayette, IN
Keep these tips in mind before moving to, from, or within West Lafayette.
Schedule an Early Move
West Lafayette usually gets congested during rush hour. Maneuvering through it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may lead to delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by booking movers several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with West Lafayette's hot weather. This can affect your move if you start your search too late and can't find an available moving company. You should be able to secure the moving company you desire by contacting movers at least eight weeks before your move. However, keep in mind that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
We suggest you start packing around six weeks in advance to avoid rushing to pack when moving day comes. Spending time packing a couple boxes each day can make the process less stressful. Most movers won't move items that aren't packed by the time your move begins.
How Much do Movers Cost in West Lafayette, IN
Movers in West Lafayette 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in West Lafayette
What is the average commute time in West Lafayette?
Does West Lafayette have good schools?
How much would it cost to complete a move in West Lafayette for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
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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