How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Lake Stevens
Make an informed choice by taking the following factors into consideration when deciding on a mover in Lake Stevens.
Determine Your Budget
The average cost of a local move in Lake Stevens is $119 per hour. The overall cost adds up to $4,323 for a two-bedroom move. Factors that affect your actual cost include move distance, the season, your home size, and any additional tasks you need done.
We recommend obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Don't forget to request written estimates. These should outline the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your moving company's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking for a mover. Check websites like social media, Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and Trustpilot to gain insights into the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Lake Stevens must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Washington, your mover must have a permit from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). You can verify a company's permit status on the UTC's list of household goods carriers.
The requirements differ if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Conduct an inventory of your belongings when seeking quotes and document any additional services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Share any specific requirements or unique circumstances with your moving company representative to evaluate if the company is able to meet your specific requirements.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include the following services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When requesting a quote from your moving company, mention any services you need. Increased pricing may apply for the following 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 Lake Stevens, WA
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Lake Stevens move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Lake Stevens are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. We recommend arranging before morning rush hour, which makes sure the movers beat the traffic and finish the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Lake Stevens' fairly hot weather. This can impact your move if you begin looking too late and can't find a moving company with availability. You should be able to book the moving company you prefer 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 move items that haven't been packed when your move begins. We recommend you start packing about six weeks before your move to avoid stressing over last-minute packing when moving day comes. Packing a few boxes each day can make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Lake Stevens, WA
Movers in Lake Stevens cost $2,669 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,545 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 | $2,669 | $3,271 | $7,545 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,284 | $3,915 | $10,983 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,327 | $4,475 | $11,510 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,269 | $5,550 | $13,667 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Lake Stevens
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