How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Lancaster
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in Lancaster.
Determine Your Budget
Based on our findings, the average cost of hiring a local mover in Lancaster is $45 per hour. The overall cost adds up to $4,393 for a two-bedroom move. Factors that affect your actual cost include your home size, any additional tasks you need done, move distance, and the season.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Request written estimates that outline the total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is necessary for all moving companies. You can find moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, social media, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Lancaster must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're making a short-haul move that's purely within Pennsylvania, your mover must carry an active PUC number from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC).
If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up the company’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assessing whether the mover offers the services you need is essential during the quote process. Take a full inventory of your home before getting quotes and write down any basic or add-on services you may need. Inform the moving company about any particular conditions or needs to determine whether 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 requesting a quote from your moving company, disclose any services you require. Increased pricing may apply for the following 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 Lancaster, PA
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within Lancaster.
Schedule an Early Move
Lancaster sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and impact your budget since local movers charge by the hour. Planning your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before rush hour and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Lancaster, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can slow or worsen your move. If you plan 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 moving companies only carry items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival. You should begin packing about six weeks before your move. Spend some time packing daily to avoid last-minute scrambling on moving day.
How Much do Movers Cost in Lancaster, PA
Movers in Lancaster cost $2,693 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,842 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 | $2,693 | $3,404 | $7,842 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,309 | $4,062 | $11,251 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,356 | $4,630 | $11,904 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,321 | $5,711 | $14,075 |
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