How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Amherst
A few factors to consider when choosing a moving company include customer reviews, licensing, services offered, and cost.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Amherst charge an average hourly rate of $104. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,044 in total. Your move distance, home size, move date, and any additional services you need will determine your actual cost.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that detail the total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate readily available until the company has completed your move to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is essential for all moving companies. Visit platforms like social media, the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google Reviews to learn about the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Amherst must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one New York city to another, verify that your mover holds a New York Department of Transportation license.
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 see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Conduct an inventory of your belongings when seeking quotes and note down any additional services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Notify the moving company about any specific needs to assess if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include the following services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need special services from your moving company, mention these when requesting a quote. Services that can contribute to higher pricing are:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Amherst, NY
Here are a few additional tips to consider for your Amherst move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Amherst are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. Try to schedule your move either a few hours before or after the morning rush hour to avoid this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The peak moving season—between May and September—coincides with Amherst's fairly hot weather. This can adversely affect your moving process if you begin looking too late and can't find an available moving company. Plan ahead and secure your desired 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
You should begin packing about six weeks before your move. Spend some time packing daily to prevent needing to pack at the last minute. Most movers won't transport items that haven't been packed by the time your move begins.
How Much do Movers Cost in Amherst, NY
Movers in Amherst cost $2,572 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,362 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 | $2,572 | $2,743 | $6,362 |
250-999 miles | $3,182 | $3,329 | $9,916 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,209 | $3,860 | $9,938 |
2,500+ miles | $3,065 | $4,909 | $12,039 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Amherst
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