10 best movers in Battle Creek, Michigan

International Van Lines is the best mover for interstate moves. For a local move in the Battle Creek area, use the filters below to find other local companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in Battle Creek

A long-distance move is when you move to a different state or more than 50 miles away. Check that the moving company you choose has the proper federal licensing when crossing state lines. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To confirm a carrier's licensing status, you can input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

We've verified that the long-distance movers below have an active license. 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?

The average hourly moving rate for relocating within or out of Battle Creek is greater than the national average, making it a relatively expensive process. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Battle Creek is above 67.2% of the country.

Many factors are involved when moving, so expenses add up fast. Here are some common moving costs:

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

Your final moving bill may also be influenced by these additional considerations:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring professional movers, you may have to pay more for moving valuable, breakable or very bulky items. Some items that can be more expensive to move include these:

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and if so, how much they charge.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they provide quality service. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Bad weather, traffic, limited supplies and transportation emergencies can all add time and money to your move. There’s no way to combat delays, but you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can reduce your moving expenses in Battle Creek.

Be communicative

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

For example, your movers can likely add small items to the truck without issue, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — should be discussed before the move. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t start the move until you’ve consented to the charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving in the off-season or during the week can save some money and ensure you book your preferred moving team.

Most people schedule moves from May through September. You may get lower moving rates and less competition if your timeline is flexible and you can plan your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you can't find an affordable moving service.

One alternative is handling the move by yourself. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between professional movers and moving by yourself:

• Fuel
• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental

You may also need to ask friends, family or neighbors for help moving bulky or heavy items such as furniture. Professional movers are worth it if you lack the time or support to commit to self-moving.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr is another option. While hiring hourly help can be less expensive, these freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Battle Creek

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers manage every part of the moving process for you. They supply packing materials, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is pricier than standard moving services, which typically only include the loading up and transport of your belongings. The cost can be worth it, considering the time and labor packers spare you, in addition to the packing supplies costs it covers. Additionally, full-service moving may offer more comprehensive insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are typically only covered up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed items can also be difficult.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on their transport trucks, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're coordinating an interstate move, confirm the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Michigan are also required to have a license from the Motor Carrier Division of the Michigan State Police.

How does moving insurance work?

See what insurance policies your movers provide. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're moving valuable goods — just understand that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The hotter months from May to September is optimal time to move, leading to limited availability of movers and inflated costs for moves both sizable and small. Understandably, the high-costs might discourage you from a summer relocation. However, you may want to bypass a winter move, too, as Michigan's icy roads and snowy weather are far from ideal conditions for a move.

We advise moving in the springtime or early autumn so that you have optimal weather conditions and more affordable pricing for services.

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

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

Many moving companies restrict insurance coverage on high-value items, 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 items prohibited for transportation by movers. These include the following:

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

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.