How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Norfolk
Make an informed choice by taking the following factors into consideration when deciding on a mover in Norfolk.
Determine Your Budget
The average cost of a local move in Norfolk is $41 per hour. The overall cost adds up to $4,074 for a two-bedroom move. Your actual costs will depend on any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, the season, your home size, and move distance.
We recommend obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Always get written estimates, which should detail your total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need customer feedback. Check websites such as social media, Yelp, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau to gain insights into customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Norfolk must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one Virginia city to another, your mover needs to be certified, insured, and bonded according to state regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles handles intrastate moving companies.
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 provides the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Conduct an inventory of your home when seeking quotes and note down any additional services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Tell the moving company if you have any specific conditions or needs to evaluate if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers offer the following basic services as a part of their base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Inform your moving company about the other services you need while going through 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 Norfolk, VA
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Norfolk.
Schedule an Early Move
Norfolk traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is often hectic. Navigating gridlock with a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic during your local move typically leads to higher costs since they’ll still be on the clock. Aim to plan your move either a few hours before or after the morning rush hour to avoid this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Norfolk's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, particularly if you start searching for a mover too late. The high demand could reduce your chances of securing your desired mover. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to lock in the moving company you want. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could make the move more difficult for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most movers won't transport items that haven't been packed by the time your move is supposed to start. You should begin packing around six weeks in advance. Pack a few boxes each 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 Norfolk, VA
Movers in Norfolk cost $2,583 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,493 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 | $2,583 | $2,801 | $6,493 |
250-999 miles | $3,193 | $3,394 | $10,033 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,222 | $3,928 | $10,112 |
2,500+ miles | $3,088 | $4,979 | $12,219 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Norfolk
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