How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Port Arthur
A few factors to consider when choosing a moving company include cost, licensing, services offered, and customer reviews.
Determine Your Budget
A local move costs $42 per hour on average. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs around $4,375 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include your home size, any additional tasks you need done, move distance, and the season.
Consider getting quotes from a minimum of three reputable moving companies in your area to make an educated choice. Written estimates are crucial in this process. They should contain a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate handy until the company has completed your move to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking for a mover. Visit sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, Google Reviews, social media, and the Better Business Bureau to learn about the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Port Arthur 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.
The requirements change if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether the mover offers the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Get ready for the quote process by taking a comprehensive inventory of your home and noting any services you may need. Discuss any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative in order to assess whether the company can accommodate your particular needs.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include the following services in the base price for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure you inform your mover of any special services you need while going through 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
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Port Arthur, TX
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Port Arthur.
Schedule an Early Move
Port Arthur sometimes sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be difficult 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. Scheduling your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before rush hour and make the trip to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Port Arthur's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your moving process, particularly if you start searching for a moving company too late. The high demand could make it harder to secure your desired mover. Plan ahead and schedule your desired moving company at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential challenges the summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Start packing around six weeks before your move so you can avoid rushing at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process less stressful. Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed by the scheduled moving time.
How Much do Movers Cost in Port Arthur, TX
Movers in Port Arthur cost $2,687 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,764 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 | $2,687 | $3,369 | $7,764 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,303 | $4,023 | $11,181 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,348 | $4,589 | $11,801 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,307 | $5,669 | $13,968 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Port Arthur
What is the average cost of living in Port Arthur?
Does Port Arthur have good schools?
How much would a Port Arthur move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
What is the best moving company in Port Arthur?
How should I pack things up for my move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.