How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Kent
Some factors to consider when choosing a moving company include customer reviews, licensing, services offered, and cost.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, the average mover in Kent charges $93 per hour. The typical local move costs $4,391 total for two-bedroom homes. Your actual cost will depend on the season, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, move distance, and your home size.
Consider obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area to make an educated choice. Written estimates are essential in this process. They should include a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your moving company to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is important for all moving companies. Read customer reviews on platforms such as Yelp, social media, the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews to find moving companies with good customer service.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Kent must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Washington city to another, your mover must have a permit from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). You can verify permits on the UTC's list of household goods carriers.
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
Assess whether the mover can provide the services you need during the quote process. Get ready for the quote process by making a thorough inventory of your belongings and writing down any services you might require. Discuss any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative in order to assess whether the company can fulfill your particular needs.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover will include these services for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Ensure that your moving company is informed of any extra services you need while going through the quote process. The following services may result in higher pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Kent, WA
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Kent.
Schedule an Early Move
Kent traffic during rush hour is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic during your local move typically leads to higher costs if they charge by the hour. Arranging your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before rush hour and make the trip to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Kent's fairly hot weather. This can negatively impact your moving process if you start your search too late and can't find an available moving company. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to secure your desired moving company. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Begin packing about 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 more manageable. Most movers won't transport items that aren't packed by the time your move begins.
How Much do Movers Cost in Kent, WA
Movers in Kent 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 Kent
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What is the average cost of living in Kent?
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