Moving Guide » moving services » Local Move
Local Move
A local move, in most cases, is a move done from city to city within a state or in a 50-mile radius from your current location. All local moves are regulated by your state's Department of Transportation (DOT) or the Public Utilities Conference (PUC). The industry standard is to charge by the hour. The rate depends on the number of movers and the number of trucks that are required for the job. Your estimator will make the proper determination. If packing is needed, that too is charged by the hour. Materials are charged based on actual usage. Your standard moving insurance is included in the price. Additional insurance can be secured on the day of the move. Usually local moves are completed within 1-3 days depending on the circumstances.
Many people choose a mover based on price. However, there are a number of other factors to consider when you make your choice...
References:
Do you know anyone who has used a given mover? In most cases, try to get at least two references to a particular mover to ensure consistency. Anyone can have a good or bad experience with a move so one reference is usually not reliable. Ask all movers that give you an estimate for recent, written references.
Licensing:
A licensed mover is sanctioned by certain state or federal agencies, and has basic qualifications for operating a moving company. State agencies regulate local moves, while the Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) regulates interstate moves. A mover should be able to provide a number, either in its advertisement or over the phone, that certifies that it is licensed.
Insurance:
A low price is no bargain if your treasured possessions are not insured. Licensed movers are required to provide limited liability coverage at no additional cost. You can usually purchase additional coverage for an extra premium.
Workman's Compensation:
Licensed movers are also required to have workman's compensation insurance for their movers. Failure to hire a company with this insurance could mean liability on your part for injuries a mover suffers on the job.
