10 best movers in Hartford, Connecticut

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

Long-distance movers in Hartford

A long-distance move is when you relocate from one state to another or more than 50 miles away. Make sure the mover you hire has the proper federal licensing when crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers are required to 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 verify a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The long-distance movers below are experienced and have an active license. They can help get you and your belongings safely and smoothly 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 expensive, but the average hourly moving rate in Hartford is below the national average. The cost of living in Hartford is higher than 87.5% of the country, so moving prices are more affordable than expected.

Moving costs add up quickly, as there are numerous factors involved. Here are some common moving costs:

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

Your final moving bill may also be impacted by these extra considerations:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are breakable, valuable or particularly large. These common items can cost more to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers isn’t mandatory, but it’s common 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

Delays happen. Limited supplies, traffic, transportation emergencies and bad weather can all make your move more expensive and take longer. Prepare for delays by budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Hartford.

Be communicative

To avoid surprise charges on your moving day, be communicative with your movers, especially about items you add to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

Small items may not be an issue, but make sure they know about large additions such as new appliances or furniture. The movers may need to adjust their charges for these additions, and they’ll need your consent to these fees before beginning the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving in the off-season or during the week can lower the cost and ensure you book the movers you want.

Most people book moving companies from May through September. If you have a flexible timeline, moving during less hectic months may result in less competition or lower rates.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

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

You can move by yourself, but consider the following costs along with the labor required:

• Fuel
• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for moving bulky items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. If you don't have the time or support system needed for a DIY move, hiring movers is worth it.

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

FAQ about moving in Hartford

What’s full-service moving?

When you choose full-service moving, your hired movers will take care of the entire moving process. This includes providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them to the new location and unpacking them.

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and moving your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth it when you take into account the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Full-service moving may also provide 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 tough to get approved.

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 arranging an interstate move, check the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Connecticut are also required to have a license from the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

How does moving insurance work?

You’ll also need to learn about your mover’s insurance policies. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, request information on your mover's full-value protection policies. Getting this supplementary coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving expensive or irreplaceable items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The best time to move is from May to September, creating high demand for moving teams and significantly elevated pricing nationwide for all moves. The inflated summer rates may dissuade you from a move at that time of year. However, you may want to avoid moving in the winter as well, since Connecticut's frigid temperatures and possible snowfall could present a challenge to your move.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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 valuable electronics, such as laptops, with you instead of on the moving truck.

Many moving businesses cap insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about potential loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable possessions in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

• Aerosols
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Fuel sources
• Batteries
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Plants
• Fertilizers
• 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.