How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Federal Way
Consider each company's customer reviews, licensing, cost, and services before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Federal Way charge an average hourly rate of $89. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,391 in total. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional services you need will contribute to your actual cost.
You should get quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Request written estimates that outline the total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep the estimate from your mover and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need good customer reviews. Read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, social media, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to find moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Federal Way must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Washington, your mover needs a permit from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). You can check permits on the UTC's list of household goods carriers.
If you're moving interstate, 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 FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to check a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover can provide the services you need when requesting quotes. Take a full inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note down any essential or additional services you might require. Inform the moving company if you have any specific conditions or needs to assess whether the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes the following services for standard 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 extra services you require while going through the quote process. Services that can lead to higher pricing include:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Federal Way, WA
Keep these tips in mind before moving to, from, or within Federal Way.
Schedule an Early Move
Federal Way sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be more difficult in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and impact your budget since local movers charge by the hour. Scheduling your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is limited.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Federal Way's hottest time of the year. Moving during this time can slow or worsen your move, especially if you begin your search for a mover too late. The increased demand could lead to limited availability with your desired mover. If you plan in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, the movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
You should begin packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time daily to avoid needing to pack at the last minute. Most movers handle same-day packing requests similarly. Movers won't move loose items that haven’t been packed when your move is scheduled to start in many cases.
How Much do Movers Cost in Federal Way, WA
Movers in Federal Way cost $2,692 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,831 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 | $2,692 | $3,399 | $7,831 |
250-999 miles | $3,308 | $4,057 | $11,241 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,355 | $4,624 | $11,890 |
2,500+ miles | $3,319 | $5,705 | $14,061 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Federal Way
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