How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Lincoln
Some factors to consider when looking for a moving company include services offered, cost, customer reviews, and licensing.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, the average local mover in Lincoln costs $77 per hour. The typical local move costs $4,075 total for two-bedroom homes. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include your home size, any additional tasks you need done, the season, and move distance.
We advise obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Remember to request written estimates. These should detail the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate handy until after the company has completed your move to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need customer reviews. You can identify movers that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, social media, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Lincoln must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one Nebraska city to another, your mover must have a license from the Nebraska Public Service Commission.
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 check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose provides the services that align with your expectations while obtaining quotes. Take inventory of your home before getting quotes and document any additional services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Tell your moving company representative regarding any special conditions or needs to evaluate if the company can provide adequate service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide these services in the base price for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you require special services from your moving company, disclose these during the quote process. The following services may lead to increased 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 Lincoln, NE
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Lincoln.
Schedule an Early Move
Lincoln traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously congested. 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 since they’ll still be on the clock. Try to schedule your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to avoid this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Lincoln's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your moving process, especially if you begin your search for a moving company too late. The high demand could lead to limited availability with your desired mover. Plan ahead and secure your preferred 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
Most movers won't move items that aren't packed when your move starts. You should begin packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time each day to prevent last-minute scrambling on moving day.
How Much do Movers Cost in Lincoln, NE
Movers in Lincoln cost $2,583 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,496 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 | $2,583 | $2,803 | $6,496 |
250-999 miles | $3,193 | $3,395 | $10,037 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,223 | $3,930 | $10,116 |
2,500+ miles | $3,088 | $4,981 | $12,224 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Lincoln
What is the average cost of living in Lincoln?
Does Lincoln have good schools?
How much would a Lincoln move cost 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
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.