How to Choose the Best Local Mover in La Porte
Some factors you should consider when looking for a moving company include licensing, services offered, customer reviews, and cost.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in La Porte is $87. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs around $4,446 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include any additional tasks you need done, move distance, your home size, and the season.
We recommend obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Remember to request written estimates. These should detail the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Hold onto your moving company's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Good customer feedback is essential for all moving companies. You can find movers with positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like social media, Yelp, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and Google Reviews.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in La Porte must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one Texas city to another, 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 the company’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether the mover you chose can deliver the services that align with your expectations while obtaining quotes. Complete an extensive inventory of your home before getting quotes and note down any essential or additional services you might require. Discuss any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative to determine whether the company is able to meet your specific requirements.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following services in the standard price:
- 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, mention these when requesting a quote. Services that can lead to higher pricing are:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in La Porte, TX
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within La Porte.
Schedule an Early Move
La Porte sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be more difficult in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. You can avoid this by arranging your move a few hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The peak moving season—between May and September—coincides with La Porte's hottest time of year. This can adversely affect your moving process if you begin looking too late and can't find an available moving company. Plan ahead and schedule your chosen moving company at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential challenges the hot summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies handle same-day packing requests similarly. Movers will not move loose items that haven’t been packed when your move is scheduled to begin in many cases. You should begin packing around six weeks in advance. Pack a few boxes every day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have some spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t depend on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in La Porte, TX
Movers in La Porte 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 La Porte
What is the housing market like in La Porte?
Does La Porte have good schools?
How much do movers cost in La Porte?
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.
