How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Harrisonburg
A few factors to consider when looking for a moving company include services offered, customer reviews, cost, and licensing.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Harrisonburg charge an average hourly rate of $39. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,348 in total. Your actual cost will vary depending on move distance, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, your home size, and the season.
You should get quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that break down the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your to the final cost after your move helps ensure fair pricing is maintained.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need customer feedback. Reading customer reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Google Reviews, and Yelp will indicate which movers prioritize positive customer experiences. We suggest thoroughly researching customer reviews before selecting a moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Harrisonburg must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover needs to be insured, certified, and bonded according to state regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles oversees intrastate moving companies.
The requirements are different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a mover 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 see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Complete an extensive inventory of your home before requesting quotes and write down any basic or add-on services you may need. Notify your moving company representative about any specific requirements or unique circumstances to see if the company can provide suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following moving services in the base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need additional services from your moving company, disclose 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 Harrisonburg, VA
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Harrisonburg.
Schedule an Early Move
Harrisonburg sometimes sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Getting stuck in traffic can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. Try to schedule your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Harrisonburg's hot weather. This can negatively impact your moving process if you start your search too late and can't find an available moving company. Plan ahead and book your chosen moving company at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential difficulties the hot summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Most movers handle same-day packing requests similarly. In many cases, movers will not move loose items that haven’t been packed when your move is scheduled to begin. You should begin packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes every day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have a few extra boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t depend on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Harrisonburg, VA
Movers in Harrisonburg cost $2,677 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,651 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 | $2,677 | $3,318 | $7,651 |
250-999 miles | $3,293 | $3,967 | $11,079 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,337 | $4,530 | $11,651 |
2,500+ miles | $3,288 | $5,607 | $13,813 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Harrisonburg
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