10 best movers in Gadsden, Alabama

The best moving company for relocating out of Alabama is International Van Lines. For a local move in the Gadsden area, use the filters below to find other moving companies that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Gadsden

A long-distance move means moving more than 50 miles away or to a different state. If you're crossing state lines, you should be especially careful that the moving company you use has the right federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name to verify a carrier’s licensing status in 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?

While moving can be an expensive process, the average hourly rate for moving services in Gadsden is lower than the national average. The cost of living in Gadsden is only higher than 37.8% of the country, so moving prices are lower than expected.

Moving costs add up fast based on what services you need. The following are typical moving expenses:

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

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

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move valuable, fragile or oversized items. The following items can cost more to move:

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

Find out from potential movers whether they move these items and if so, whether they charge extra.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they take good care of your belongings or make your move easier. For local moves, a typical tip is $5–$10 per mover per hour. For long-distance moves, tip $20–$40 per mover per day.

Unexpected delays

Traffic, transportation emergencies, limited supplies and bad weather can all delay your move and add to the time and cost. Delays are unpredictable, but you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can lower your moving costs in Gadsden.

Be communicative

Communicate any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Be especially transparent about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

For example, small items can likely be added to the truck without a problem, but large items — like new furniture or appliances — need to be discussed ahead of time. The movers may need to adjust their quote for these item, and they’ll need your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Dependable, cost-effective movers are highly sought after. Consider moving in the off-season or during the week to save some money and still get your preferred moving company.

Movers are busiest from May through September. You may get lower moving rates and less competition if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move outside of those months.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a cheap mover that meets your needs, there are alternative routes you can take.

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

• Packing supplies
• Fuel
• Moving truck rental

Your friends, family or neighbors may also need to help you move, especially if you have bulky items such as furniture. Professional movers provide significant value if you lack the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

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

FAQ about moving in Gadsden

What’s full-service moving?

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

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you take into account the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Full-service moving may also offer better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are typically only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will show proof of registration on their transport trucks, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're planning an interstate move, check the company's USDOT and MC numbers on 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’ll also need to check out your 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 expensive items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The best time to move falls throughout May and September, creating increased demand and raised rates for moves of all scopes. The lofty prices could dissuade you from making a move in the summer. Moreover, Gadsden's intense 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 photo albums in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any high-end electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Moving companies often limit insurance coverage on costly goods, like jewelry and heirlooms. Take irreplaceable and valuable belongings in your own car if you're nervous about loss or damage.

There are certain goods and materials prohibited for transportation by moving companies. These include the following:

• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Aerosols
• Fuel sources
• Perishable foods and produce
• Batteries
• Plants
• Fertilizers
• 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.