10 best movers in Albuquerque, New Mexico

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for moving out of New Mexico. For a local move in the Albuquerque area, use the filters below to find other local companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in Albuquerque

A long-distance move is when you relocate to another state or over 50 miles away. If you're moving across state lines, you need to be especially cautious that the mover you use has the necessary federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers or the mover's name to look up a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We’ve confirmed that the long-distance moving services below have an active license. These experienced movers can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

Relocating within or out of Albuquerque is fairly costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Albuquerque is higher than 78.8% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly, as there are numerous factors involved. Common moving expenses include the following:

• Packing
• Fuel
• Storage
• Supplies
• Junk removal
• Professional labor

Your total moving cost may also be impacted by these extra factors:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move fragile, oversized or valuable items. Some common items that can cost more to move include these:

• Pianos
• Artwork and sculptures
• Safes
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology

When vetting movers, ask whether they move these items and how much it'll cost.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers is optional, it’s common if your movers got your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as traffic, inclement weather, a lack of supplies and transportation emergencies. These can add to your moving costs and extend your timeline. Prepare for delays by budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping these ways in mind can save you money on moving in Albuquerque.

Be communicative

Keep your movers informed about any modifications to your schedule or inventory, especially when adding items after getting a quote from the movers.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without a problem, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed in advance. The movers may need to adjust their charges for these additions and get your consent to these fees before beginning the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Move in the off-season or on a weekday to lower the cost and reserve the movers you want.

Movers are the most booked between May and September. You may get less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move outside of those months.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you have difficulty finding a cheap mover that works for you, there are several alternatives to consider.

Handling the move yourself is an option. Before going this route, consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Enlisting help from friends, family or neighbors for loading and unloading heavy items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. Movers are worth the cost if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack is another option. Hiring hourly help can be less expensive, but independent contractors may not have proper licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Albuquerque

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will handle all aspects of the moving process. They supply packing materials, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than services that only include loading and transporting your items, but it can be worth the extra cost considering the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Full-service moving may also offer more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are usually only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be tough to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will display their proof of registration on physical trucks and official files. If you're making an interstate move, you should screen companies for legitimate USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in New Mexico are also required to have a license from the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission.

How does moving insurance work?

Check what insurance policies your movers provide. Every company should offer released-value coverage, which insures items at 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're transporting high-worth goods — just understand that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months — May through September — are the most favorable time to move in the U.S., which results in considerably increased demand and significantly higher rates across the country for moves of all sizes. With good reason, this may steer you away from a summer move due to the higher cost.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

On moving day, keep personal documents like financial records and identification documents in your own car. Additionally, we recommend keeping any expensive electronics, such as laptops, with you instead of on the moving truck.

Many moving businesses put limits on insurance coverage on high-value possessions, like jewelry and family heirlooms. Keep these yourself, as well as any other irreplaceable belongings, if you're worried about potential loss or damage.

There are certain goods and materials that moving services aren't allowed to move. These include the following:

• Aerosols
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Batteries
• Perishable foods and produce
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Plants
• Fuel sources
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Fertilizers

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.