10 best movers in Lafayette, California

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

Long-distance movers in Lafayette

A long-distance move is when you relocate from one state to another or over 50 miles away. Hiring a moving company with the proper federal licensing is crucial if you're crossing state lines. 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 verified that the long-distance moving firms below have an active license. They can help get 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 Lafayette is greater than the national average, making it a fairly expensive process. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in Lafayette is above 99.6% of the country.

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

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

These additional factors can cause your total moving cost to climb even more:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are valuable, fragile or particularly bulky. The following items can cost more to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Giving your movers a tip is optional but common if they get your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. For local moves, a standard tip is $5–$10 per mover per hour. For long-distance moves, tip $20–$40 per mover per day.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as inclement weather, transportation emergencies, traffic and a lack of supplies. These can add to your moving costs and extend your timeline. Be prepared for delays by budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping these ways in mind can save you money on moving in Lafayette.

Be communicative

Communicate any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Notify them about additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

Small items may not pose a problem, but inform them of large additions such as new furniture or appliances. The movers may need to adjust their charges for these item and get your consent to these fees before beginning the move.

Have a flexible schedule

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

The busiest moving period is from May through 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 taking an alternative route if you can't find an affordable relocation service that meets your needs.

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 yourself:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for moving heavy items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. Hiring movers is beneficial if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr is another alternative. While hiring hourly help can cost less, these gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Lafayette

What’s full-service moving?

When you choose full-service moving, your hired movers will tackle the entire moving process. This includes supplying packing materials, providing packing services for your belongings, transporting them and unpacking everything for you.

Standard moving services are more affordable than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and moving your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth it when you consider the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can get you better insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are usually only covered up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be challenging to get a claim approved for self-packed damaged items.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on formal filings like estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should verify a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an out of state move by checking the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in California are also required to have a license from the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services.

How does moving insurance work?

Determine the complete worth of your belongings to accurately choose the ideal insurance policy. Every company should offer released-value coverage, which insures items at 60 cents per pound per item. Purchasing this extra coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving costly or irreplaceable items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The peak time to move falls between May and September, creating increased demand and heightened rates for moves of all scopes. The lofty prices could prevent you from making a move in the summer. Furthermore, Lafayette's extreme summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

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?

Load up your car with anything too important to lose, such as photographs, financial records, identification documents and electronics.

Many moving businesses limit insurance coverage for costly items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about possible loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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

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.