How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Independence
You should consider several key factors when choosing a mover. Here are some things to keep in mind when hiring movers in Independence.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Independence is $60. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs $4,129 overall. Factors that affect your actual cost include the season, any additional tasks you need done, move distance, and your home size.
Consider obtaining quotes from three or more movers in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are essential in this process. They should contain a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing is maintained.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when looking into moving companies. Take the time to read customer reviews on websites like Google Reviews, social media, the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Trustpilot to find moving companies with good customer service.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Independence must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your moving company must have operating authority from the Missouri Department of Transportation's Motor Carrier Services division.
If you're moving interstate, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also have 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
Assess whether the mover provides the services you need during the quote process. Take inventory of your belongings when requesting quotes and note down any basic or add-on services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Share any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative to evaluate if the company can fulfill your specific requirements.
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
Ensure you inform your mover of any special services you require in the quote process. Services that result in 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 Independence, MO
Here are a few additional tips to consider for your Independence move.
Schedule an Early Move
Independence sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget since local movers charge by the hour. Try to arrange your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to avoid this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Independence. This can negatively impact your moving experience. Plan ahead and schedule your chosen moving company at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential challenges the hot summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't handle items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. Begin packing about six weeks before your move to avoid rushing at the last minute. You can pack a couple boxes each day to make the process more manageable.
How Much do Movers Cost in Independence, MO
Movers in Independence cost $2,602 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,722 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 | $2,602 | $2,904 | $6,722 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,213 | $3,507 | $10,241 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,245 | $4,048 | $10,417 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,127 | $5,104 | $12,535 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Independence
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