How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Harrisburg
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in Harrisburg.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Harrisburg movers charge $39 per hour on average. The average local move costs $4,124 total for two-bedroom homes. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional tasks you need the movers to do will contribute to your actual cost.
Consider obtaining quotes from at least three reputable moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are important in this process. They should contain a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need good customer feedback. You can find movers that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, social media, Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Harrisburg must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover must have a current PUC number from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC).
If you're moving interstate, 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
Assess whether the mover offers the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Conduct a thorough inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note any essential or additional services you may need. Notify your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to see whether the company can provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide these 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
Ensure you inform your mover of any special services you need in the quote process. These services may lead to increased 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 Harrisburg, PA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Harrisburg.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Harrisburg are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. Scheduling your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers arrive before rush hour and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Harrisburg. This can slow or negatively impact your move. If you book far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with the mover you want regardless of the season. However, your movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most movers won't move items that aren't packed when your move is supposed to start. We recommend you start packing around six weeks in advance to prevent stressing over last-minute packing on your moving day. Spending time packing some items each day can get the task done without overwhelming you.
How Much do Movers Cost in Harrisburg, PA
Movers in Harrisburg cost $2,600 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,704 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 | $2,600 | $2,896 | $6,704 |
250-999 miles | $3,211 | $3,499 | $10,225 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,243 | $4,038 | $10,393 |
2,500+ miles | $3,124 | $5,094 | $12,511 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Harrisburg
What is the job market like in Harrisburg?
What is the average cost of living in Harrisburg?
How much do movers cost in Harrisburg?
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.