How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Pittsburgh
You should consider a few important factors when choosing a mover. Here are some things to look for when hiring movers in Pittsburgh.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Pittsburgh moving companies charge $48 per hour on average. The average cost overall is $4,281 for two-bedroom homes. Your actual costs will depend on move distance, the season, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that break down the total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep the estimate from your mover and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays a crucial role for moving companies. Take the time to read customer reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot, Yelp, social media, the Better Business Bureau, and Google Reviews to find moving companies with excellent customer service.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Pittsburgh must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Pennsylvania city to another, your mover must have a 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 have 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 look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assess whether the mover you chose provides the services that align with your expectations while obtaining quotes. Get ready for the quote process by making a detailed inventory of your belongings and writing down any services you might require. Notify the moving company if you have any specific needs to assess if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include these services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you require special services from your moving company, disclose these when requesting a quote. These services may lead to higher pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Pittsburgh, PA
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Pittsburgh.
Schedule an Early Move
Pittsburgh usually gets hectic during rush hour. Maneuvering through it can be more difficult in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may lead to delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. Aim to plan your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest moving period, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Pittsburgh. This can slow or negatively impact your moving experience. You should be able to book your preferred moving company by reaching out to movers well in advance. However, keep in mind that the heat may impact your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies treat same-day packing requests similarly. Movers won't move loose items that haven’t been packed by the time your move is scheduled to start in many cases. We recommend you start packing around six weeks in advance to avoid stressing over last-minute packing when moving day comes. Spending time packing a few boxes each day can get it done without overwhelming you.
How Much do Movers Cost in Pittsburgh, PA
Movers in Pittsburgh cost $2,654 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,368 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 | $2,654 | $3,192 | $7,368 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,269 | $3,827 | $10,824 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,309 | $4,384 | $11,275 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,239 | $5,454 | $13,424 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Pittsburgh
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What is the average cost of living in Pittsburgh?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Pittsburgh for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
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