How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Richmond
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when choosing movers in Richmond.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, the average moving company in Richmond costs $39 per hour. The average local move costs $4,289 total for two-bedroom homes. Factors that affect your actual cost include your home size, the season, move distance, and any additional tasks you need done.
You should obtain quotes from at least three movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that provide a clear breakdown of the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies depend on good customer feedback. Looking at customer reviews on forums such as Yelp, social media, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau will indicate which movers have positive customer experiences. We recommend thoroughly researching customer reviews before choosing a moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Richmond must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover needs to be bonded, certified, and insured according to state regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles oversees intrastate movers.
If you're moving to or from another state, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSAβs mover registration search tool to check a moverβs registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assessing 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 possessions and noting any services you may need. Additionally, inform your moving company representative about any extra services you may need to assess the company's ability to deliver suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include the following services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When asking for a quote from your moving company, disclose any additional services you require. Services that can lead 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 Richmond, VA
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Richmond move.
Schedule an Early Move
Richmond gets hectic during rush hour. Navigating it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may lead to delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by scheduling your move a few hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Richmond, this time overlaps with hot summer weather, which can worsen your moving experience. You should be able to book your preferred moving company by contacting movers well in advance. However, remember that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't move items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. You should start packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have a few spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldnβt count on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Richmond, VA
Movers in Richmond cost $2,657 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,400 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 | $2,657 | $3,207 | $7,400 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,271 | $3,843 | $10,852 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,312 | $4,400 | $11,318 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,244 | $5,472 | $13,468 |
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