10 best movers in Auburn, Alabama

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for moving out of Alabama. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move in the Auburn area.

Long-distance movers in Auburn

A long-distance move is when you relocate from one state to another or more than 50 miles away. When crossing state boundaries, make sure your mover has the necessary federal licensing. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To check a carrier's licensing status, you can input the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

We've confirmed that the long-distance moving companies below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings to your new home safely and smoothly.

Featured

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 Auburn is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Auburn is above 71.7% of the country.

Moving expenses add up fast, as there are various factors involved. The following are common moving expenses:

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

These additional considerations can add even more cost to your final moving bill:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move fragile, valuable or oversized items. Some items that can cost more to move include the following:

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

When deciding between 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 handled your belongings with care or made your move less stressful. For long-distance moves, a standard tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Transportation emergencies, limited supplies, bad weather and traffic can all delay your move and add to the time and cost. Be prepared for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget and keeping a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can save you money on moving in Auburn.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid unexpected charges on the day of your move. Inform them of additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory.

While small items can usually be accommodated without a problem, larger pieces such as new furniture or appliances should be discussed ahead of time. The movers may charge more for those additions and won’t begin your move until you’ve agreed to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Reliable, cost-effective movers are highly sought after. Consider moving in the off-season or on a weekday to save some money and still reserve your preferred relocation service.

Most people hire moving companies between May and September. You may find less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can plan your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider an alternative if you have difficulty finding a cheap mover that meets your needs.

You can handle the move yourself, but consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading bulky items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you lack the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr is another alternative. Hiring hourly help can be more affordable, but freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Auburn

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving means the movers tackle the entire moving process, including supplying packing materials, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than standard moving services, which typically only cover loading and moving your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, as well as the packing materials costs it covers. Additionally, full-service moving can get you better insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are generally only protected up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be challenging to get a claim approved for self-packed damaged goods.

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 compliant USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Alabama are also required to have a license from the Transportation Division of the Alabama Public Service Commission.

How does moving insurance work?

You should also look into a mover's insurance policies. Released-value coverage applies to all moves, which insures 60 cents per pound per item. A full-value protection policy may be practical if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to compare rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The ideal time to move falls throughout May and September, creating elevated demand and raised rates for moves of all scopes. The lofty prices could deter you from making a move in the summer. Additionally, Auburn's sweltering summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

We suggest scheduling your move in the spring or early fall months to take advantage of pleasant weather and lower costs for moving services.

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

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and valuable keepsakes in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Moving businesses frequently cap insurance coverage on expensive items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Keep irreplaceable and valuable belongings in your own car if you're worried about loss or damage.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

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

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.