How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Independence
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in Independence.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Independence is $117. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,205 in total. Factors that affect your actual cost include the season, your home size, any additional tasks you need done, and move distance.
Consider getting quotes from at least three reputable moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are crucial in this process. They should include a total cost breakdown, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate readily available until the moving process is finished to ensure fair pricing practices.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking into moving companies. You can find movers that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Independence must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are making a local move that's purely within Michigan, your mover needs operating authority from the Michigan State Police's Motor Carrier Division.
The requirements are a bit different 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 carry 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 the mover can provide the services you need during the quote process. Conduct an inventory of your home before seeking quotes and make a list of any additional services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Share any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative in order to assess if the company can accommodate your particular needs.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include the following moving services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Tell your moving company about any extra services you require while going through the quote process. Increased pricing 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 Independence, MI
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Independence.
Schedule an Early Move
Independence traffic during rush hour is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more difficult 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. Arranging your move for the early morning ensures that your movers arrive before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest moving period, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Independence. This can slow or negatively impact your move. Plan ahead and book your desired mover 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
You should begin packing about six weeks before your move. Spend some time packing each day to prevent last-minute scrambling on moving day. Most movers only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should have everything boxed up before they arrive.
How Much do Movers Cost in Independence, MI
Movers in Independence cost $2,628 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,043 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 | $2,628 | $3,047 | $7,043 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,241 | $3,667 | $10,531 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,277 | $4,215 | $10,844 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,183 | $5,278 | $12,977 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Independence
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