Best 5 Movers in Erie, PA

How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Erie

Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when choosing movers in Erie.

Determine Your Budget

A local move costs between $29 and $48 per hour. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs around $4,271 overall. Your actual costs will vary depending on any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, the season, your home size, and move distance.

Consider obtaining quotes from three or more reputable moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are important in this process. They should have a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.

Read Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are valuable when looking for a mover. Take the time to read customer reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, social media, the Better Business Bureau, and Trustpilot to find movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.

Ensure Proper Licensing

Moving companies in Erie must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Pennsylvania, your mover must have an active PUC number from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC).

The requirements change 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 carry 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

Ask if the mover you chose can deliver the services that align with your expectations when requesting quotes. Prepare for the quote process by making a thorough inventory of your possessions and writing down any services you might require. Tell the moving company about any special needs to determine if the company is a good fit.

Types of Moving Services

A full-service mover includes these services for basic 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, discuss any additional services you require. The following services may lead to higher pricing for your move:

• Crating for art or antiques
• Extra flights of stairs
• Long carries
• Packing
• Moving a piano
• Storage
• Unpacking
• Vehicle shipping

Tips To Consider When Moving in Erie, PA

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Erie.

Schedule an Early Move

Erie sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. Try to arrange your move either several 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 Erie's fairly hot weather. This can negatively impact your moving process if you begin looking too late and can't find an available moving company. If you book far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, your movers may be hampered by the heat.

Pack in Advance

Most movers won't transport items that aren't packed by the time your move is supposed to start. Begin packing around 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.

How Much do Movers Cost in Erie, PA

Movers in Erie cost $2,651 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,326 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.