How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Spokane
Consider each moving company's customer reviews, licensing, cost, and services before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Spokane is $64. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,200 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include your home size, move distance, the season, and any additional tasks you need done.
You should get quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that break down the total cost and the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays an important role for moving companies. You can find moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, social media, and Trustpilot.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Spokane must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover needs a permit from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). You can check the UTC's list of household goods carriers for your moving company.
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 the company’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Ask if your chosen mover provides the services that align with your expectations while obtaining quotes. Prepare for the quote process by making a thorough inventory of your home and noting any services you may need. Inform the moving company about any specific needs to determine whether the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers deliver the following standard services as a part of their base price:
- 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 require. Services that contribute 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 Spokane, WA
Here are some additional tips to consider for your Spokane move.
Schedule an Early Move
Spokane traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously congested. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers getting stuck in traffic typically leads to higher costs if they charge by the hour. You can prevent this by arranging your move several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the summer heat in Spokane. This can negatively impact your moving experience. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to secure your desired moving company. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most movers treat same-day packing requests similarly. Movers won't move loose items that haven’t been packed by the time your move is scheduled to start in many cases. 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 less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Spokane, WA
Movers in Spokane cost $2,626 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,022 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 | $2,626 | $3,038 | $7,022 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,239 | $3,656 | $10,511 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,275 | $4,204 | $10,816 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,179 | $5,267 | $12,948 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Spokane
What is the housing market like in Spokane?
Does Spokane have good schools?
How much would a Spokane move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
How long should my move take?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
