Best 5 Movers in Chesapeake, VA

How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Chesapeake

You should consider several key factors when choosing a mover. These are some things to look out for when hiring movers in Chesapeake.

Determine Your Budget

A local move costs $63 per hour on average. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs $4,144 overall. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include the season, move distance, your home size, and any additional tasks you need done.

We suggest obtaining quotes from a minimum of three 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 mover's estimate until your move is finished.

Read Customer Reviews

Moving companies need solid customer reviews. You can identify movers that prioritize positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, Yelp, and social media.

Ensure Proper Licensing

Moving companies in Chesapeake must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving intrastate, your mover needs to be bonded, certified, and insured according to state regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles handles intrastate moving companies.

The requirements differ if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a moving company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.

Services

Asking whether the mover provides the services you need is essential during the quote process. Make a list of any services you might need and take a comprehensive inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Share any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative to assess if the company is able to meet your particular needs.

Types of Moving Services

Full-service movers will provide the following services in the base price for basic moves:

• Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
• Loading and unloading
• Released liability coverage for loss or damage

Ensure you inform your mover of any special services you require in the quote process. Services that contribute to increased 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 Chesapeake, VA

Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when moving in Chesapeake.

Schedule an Early Move

Chesapeake gets hectic during rush hour. Navigating it can be more difficult in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may result in delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. Aim to arrange your move either a few hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.

Avoid Busy Season

May to September marks the busiest moving season and Chesapeake's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your moving process, especially if you begin your search for a mover too late. The increased demand could make it harder to secure your desired mover. Plan ahead and book your preferred mover 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

Begin packing approximately six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a couple boxes each day to make the process more manageable. Most movers won't move items that aren't packed by the time your move is supposed to start.

How Much do Movers Cost in Chesapeake, VA

Movers in Chesapeake cost $2,607 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,786 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.