10 best movers in Birmingham, Alabama

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

Long-distance movers in Birmingham

A long-distance move is when you relocate over 50 miles away or move to another state. Make sure the mover you hire has the proper federal licensing when crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name to check a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We’ve verified that the long-distance moving companies below are actively licensed. These experienced and reliable movers can help get your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

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?

Moving is an expensive process, but the average hourly moving rate in Birmingham is below the national average. Interestingly, the cost of living in Birmingham is higher than 77.6% of the country, so moving prices are lower than expected.

Moving expenses add up fast based on what services you need. Common moving expenses include the following:

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

These additional factors can add even more to your total cost:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are valuable, fragile or particularly large. Some items that can cost more to move include these:

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

Ask movers whether they move these items and charge extra for them.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers isn’t mandatory, but it’s a common practice if your movers provided quality service. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Traffic, bad weather, transportation emergencies and limited supplies can all delay your move and increase the time and cost. There’s no way to prevent unexpected delays, but you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Birmingham.

Be communicative

Prevent surprise charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Be especially transparent about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

Small items may not be a problem, but inform them of large additions such as new furniture or appliances. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve agreed to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Schedule your move in the off-season or on a weekday to save money and reserve the movers you want.

Most people schedule moves from May through September. If you have a flexible timeline, moving during less busy months may result in lower rates or less competitionfor services.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

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

While you can move by yourself, weigh the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies
• Fuel

Enlisting help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading large items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. Professional movers provide significant value if you lack the time or support to commit to self-moving.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can be less expensive, but freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Birmingham

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will manage the entire moving process, including providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving costs more than services that only include loading and moving your items, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials it saves. Additionally, full-service moving tends to provide more comprehensive insurance coverage compared to self-packed goods, which are typically only insured up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be tough.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will display their proof of registration on physical trucks and formal files. If you're making an interstate move, you should screen companies for valid 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. However, you may want to ask about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an extra cost, if your belongings include higher worth items.

When is the best time of year to move?

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

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?

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 high-value items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Keep irreplaceable and valuable belongings in your own car if you're nervous about loss or damage.

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

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

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.