How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Scranton
Consider each moving company's licensing, customer reviews, cost, and services before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Scranton is $41. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs approximately $4,271 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include any additional tasks you need done, your home size, move distance, and the season.
Consider getting quotes from at least three moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are crucial in this process. They should contain a comprehensive breakdown of the total cost, including 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. Visit platforms such as Yelp, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, and social media to learn about the typical customer experience with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Scranton must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving intrastate, your mover must carry a current 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
Assess whether your chosen mover offers the specific services you need during the quote process. Get ready for the quote process by taking a detailed inventory of your possessions and noting any services you may need. Additionally, inform your moving company representative about any extra services you may need to gauge the company's capacity to deliver adequate service.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include these services for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Inform your moving company about the extra services you need during the quote process. The following 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 Scranton, PA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Scranton.
Schedule an Early Move
Scranton traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic during your local move will typically lead to higher costs if they charge by the hour. You can avoid this by arranging your move several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Scranton's hot weather. This can adversely affect your move if you start your search too late and can't find a moving company with availability. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to secure your desired moving company. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could make the move more difficult for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't move items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. You should begin packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time each day to avoid needing to pack at the last minute.
How Much do Movers Cost in Scranton, PA
Movers in Scranton 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.
| Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 250 miles | $2,651 | $3,173 | $7,326 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,265 | $3,806 | $10,785 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,305 | $4,362 | $11,219 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,232 | $5,431 | $13,366 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Scranton
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What is the housing market like in Scranton?
How much would a Scranton move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
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