How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Houston
Consider each moving company's services, cost, customer reviews, and licensing before picking.
Determine Your Budget
A local move costs $61 per hour on average. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs $4,446 overall. Your move date, move distance, home size, and any additional services you need will contribute to your actual cost.
You should get quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Request written estimates that detail the total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your moving company to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking into moving companies. Read customer reviews on websites like the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp to find movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Houston must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Texas, choose a mover licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
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 a mover’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether the mover provides the services you need when requesting quotes. Take inventory of your home when requesting quotes and make a list of any basic or add-on services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Furthermore, notify your moving company representative about any extra services you may need to evaluate the company's ability to offer suitable service.
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 need special services from your moving company, mention these when requesting a quote. Services that contribute to higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Houston, TX
Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when moving in Houston.
Schedule an Early Move
Houston traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock with a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic typically leads to higher costs since they’ll still be on the clock. Arranging your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers arrive before rush hour and make the trip to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the hot summer temperatures in Houston. This can negatively impact your moving experience. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to lock in the moving company you want. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
You should start packing about six weeks before you move. Spend some time packing each day to avoid needing to pack at the last minute. Most movers only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should have everything boxed up before they arrive.
How Much do Movers Cost in Houston, TX
Movers in Houston cost $2,711 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $8,064 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 | $2,711 | $3,503 | $8,064 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,329 | $4,172 | $11,451 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,378 | $4,745 | $12,200 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,359 | $5,831 | $14,381 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Houston
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