How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Cleveland
You should consider a few important factors when choosing a moving company. Here are some things to keep in mind when hiring movers in Cleveland.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Cleveland is $39. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,301 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include move distance, your home size, any additional tasks you need done, and the season.
We advise obtaining quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. It's essential to get written estimates, which should detail your total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies rely on positive customer reviews. Check websites like Google Reviews, social media, Yelp, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau to learn about customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Cleveland must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Ohio, you should choose a registered mover with the Ohio Public Utilities Commission. Check their website for a list of registered movers.
The requirements are a bit different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a mover 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 find a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover provides the services you need during the quote process. Take a full inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note down any basic or add-on services you might require. Discuss any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative in order to evaluate whether the company can accommodate your particular needs.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include 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
Tell your moving company about any other services you need during the quote process. Increased pricing may apply for these services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Cleveland, OH
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Cleveland.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Cleveland 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 arrange your move either a few hours before or after the morning rush hour to avoid this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Cleveland's hot weather. This can impact your move if you begin looking too late and can't find a moving company with availability. If you plan far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, your movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed by the scheduled moving time. You should begin packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have some extra boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t count on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Cleveland, OH
Movers in Cleveland cost $2,661 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,450 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 | $2,661 | $3,229 | $7,450 |
250-999 miles | $3,276 | $3,868 | $10,897 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,317 | $4,426 | $11,383 |
2,500+ miles | $3,253 | $5,498 | $13,536 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Cleveland
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