How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Reston
Consider each company's customer reviews, services, licensing, and cost before picking.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Reston moving companies charge $97 per hour on average. The typical local move costs $4,481 total for two-bedroom homes. Factors that affect your actual cost include any additional tasks you need done, your home size, the season, and move distance.
We recommend getting quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Always get written estimates, which should break down your total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need solid customer feedback. Take time to read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Yelp, and social media to find moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Reston must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover must be bonded, certified, 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
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Prepare for the quote process by making a comprehensive inventory of your home and noting any services you might require. Notify the moving company about any specific needs to evaluate whether the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes these services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure that your moving company is aware of any special services you need in the quote process. Services that can contribute 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 Reston, VA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Reston.
Schedule an Early Move
Reston traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously congested. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic typically leads to higher costs if they charge by the hour. Arranging your move for the early morning ensures that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season peaks between May and September. In Reston, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can slow or worsen your moving experience. If you plan in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, your movers may be hampered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most movers won't move items that haven't been packed when your move begins. We suggest you start packing about six weeks before your move to prevent rushing to pack on your moving day. Packing some items each day can get the task done without overwhelming you.
How Much do Movers Cost in Reston, VA
Movers in Reston 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 Reston
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