How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Suffolk
Some factors you should consider when looking for a moving company include licensing, cost, customer reviews, and services offered.
Determine Your Budget
The average cost of a local move in Suffolk is $59 per hour. The overall cost amounts to $4,348 for a two-bedroom move. Factors that affect your actual cost include move distance, any additional tasks you need done, the season, and your home size.
You should get quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that outline the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your mover to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing is maintained.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need good customer feedback. Visit websites such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, social media, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp to gain insights into customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Suffolk 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 handles intrastate movers.
If you're moving across states, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assessing whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Compile a list of any basic or add-on services you might need and take inventory of your home before requesting quotes. Additionally, inform your moving company representative about any particular requirements or unique circumstances you may have to evaluate the company's capacity to deliver suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often include the following moving services in the standard price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you require special services from your moving company, share these when requesting a quote. Increased pricing may apply for these services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Suffolk, VA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Suffolk.
Schedule an Early Move
Suffolk traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is often hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more difficult than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic will typically lead to higher costs since they’ll still be on the clock while in their trucks. Planning your move for the early morning ensures that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Suffolk, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can slow or worsen your moving experience. You should be able to book the moving company you desire by reaching out to companies well in advance. However, keep in mind that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies won't transport items that aren't packed when your move starts. Start packing approximately six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Suffolk, VA
Movers in Suffolk 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 Suffolk
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