How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Paterson
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when choosing movers in Paterson.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Paterson is $43. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,411 in total. Your home size, move distance, move date, and any additional services you need will affect your actual cost.
We advise getting quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Get written estimates, which should outline your total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when evaluating moving companies. You can identify movers that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Paterson must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within New Jersey, choose a mover licensed by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. You can verify the company's business license using the verification tool.
If you're moving to or from another state, 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
Assessing whether the mover offers the services you need is essential during the quote process. Prepare for the quote process by taking a thorough inventory of your belongings and noting any services you may need. Tell the moving company if you have any particular needs to evaluate if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide the following moving services in the base price for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When asking for a quote from your moving company, disclose any extra services you need. These services may result in 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 Paterson, NJ
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Paterson.
Schedule an Early Move
Paterson traffic during rush hour is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock with a moving truck is even more challenging than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic during your local move will typically lead to higher costs since they’ll still be on the clock while in their trucks. We recommend arranging before morning rush hour, which guarantees the movers avoid the traffic and wrap up the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest moving period, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Paterson. This can negatively impact your moving experience. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to lock in your desired moving company. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could make the move more difficult for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before they arrive. You should begin packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time each day to avoid needing to pack at the last minute.
How Much do Movers Cost in Paterson, NJ
Movers in Paterson cost $2,699 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,916 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 | $2,699 | $3,437 | $7,916 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,316 | $4,099 | $11,318 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,363 | $4,668 | $12,003 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,333 | $5,751 | $14,177 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Paterson
What is the average cost of living in Paterson?
Does Paterson have good schools?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Paterson for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
When is the best time to move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
