How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Missoula
Consider each company's licensing, services, customer reviews, and cost before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Missoula is $80. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,166 in total. Your home size, move distance, move date, and any additional services you need will determine your actual cost.
We suggest obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Get written estimates, which should detail your total cost and 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
Good customer feedback is important for all moving companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Yelp to identify moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Missoula must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one Montana city to another, choose a mover that's in good standing with the Montana Public Service Commission.
If you're moving interstate, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry 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 check a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assess whether the mover offers the services you need during the quote process. Complete an extensive inventory of your home before getting quotes and note down any basic or add-on services you might require. Notify your moving company representative regarding any specific requirements or unique circumstances to determine whether the company can provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often include the following moving services in the starting cost:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When seeking a quote from your moving company, disclose any additional services you need. Services that can lead to higher pricing include:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Missoula, MT
Keep the following in mind before moving to, from, or within Missoula.
Schedule an Early Move
Missoula traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously congested. Navigating gridlock with a moving truck is even more difficult than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic during your local move typically leads to higher costs since they’ll still be on the clock while in their trucks. You can prevent this by booking movers a few hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Missoula's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, particularly if you begin your search for a moving company too close to your move. The high demand could reduce your chances of securing your desired mover. You should be able to secure the moving company you want by reaching out to companies well in advance. However, remember that the heat may impact your movers.
Pack in Advance
Begin packing approximately six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a couple boxes each day to make the process less stressful. Most movers won't carry items that haven't been packed by the scheduled moving time.
How Much do Movers Cost in Missoula, MT
Movers in Missoula cost $2,615 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,881 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 | $2,615 | $2,975 | $6,881 |
250-999 miles | $3,227 | $3,586 | $10,384 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,261 | $4,130 | $10,628 |
2,500+ miles | $3,155 | $5,190 | $12,754 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Missoula
What is the job market like in Missoula?
What is the average cost of living in Missoula?
How much do movers cost in Missoula?
What is the best moving company in Missoula?
How long should my move take?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.