How to Choose the Best Local Mover in McLean
Make an informed choice by taking the following factors into consideration when choosing movers in McLean.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, McLean moving companies charge $117 per hour on average. The average local move costs $4,481 total for two-bedroom homes. Your actual costs will depend on any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, your home size, the season, and move distance.
We suggest getting quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Get written estimates, which should break down your total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is important for all moving companies. Check platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, social media, and Trustpilot to learn about customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in McLean must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Virginia, your mover must be certified, bonded, and insured according to state regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles oversees intrastate moving companies.
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 you chose can provide the services that align with your expectations as you receive quotes. Get ready for the quote process by making a detailed inventory of your home and noting any services you might require. Inform your moving company representative regarding any specific requirements or unique circumstances to determine whether the company can provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often include the following services in the starting cost:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure you inform your mover of any extra services you require during the quote process. Services that can 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 McLean, VA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within McLean.
Schedule an Early Move
McLean 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 since local movers charge by the hour. We advise scheduling before morning rush hour, which ensures the movers avoid the traffic and finish the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with McLean's hot weather. This can affect your moving process if you start your search too late and can't find an available moving company. You should be able to secure the moving company you want by reaching out to movers at least eight weeks before your move. However, remember that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
We recommend you begin packing around six weeks before your move to avoid stressing over last-minute packing on your moving day. Spending time packing some items each day can get it done without overwhelming you. Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed when your move starts.
How Much do Movers Cost in McLean, VA
Movers in McLean cost $2,723 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $8,212 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 | $2,723 | $3,569 | $8,212 |
250-999 miles | $3,341 | $4,245 | $11,585 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,393 | $4,822 | $12,397 |
2,500+ miles | $3,385 | $5,912 | $14,585 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in McLean
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