10 best movers in Lawrence, New Jersey

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

Long-distance movers in Lawrence

A long-distance move means moving over 50 miles away or to another state. If you're crossing state boundaries, you need to be especially careful that the mover 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 these numbers or the mover's name to confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We've verified that the long-distance moving services below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently.

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 moving within or out of Lawrence is higher than the national average, making it a fairly expensive process. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Lawrence is above 97.5% of the country.

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

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

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

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move fragile, oversized or valuable items. These items commonly cost more to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t required, it’s a common practice if your movers handled your belongings with care or made your move less stressful. 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

Delays are common due to issues such as a lack of supplies, transportation emergencies, traffic and inclement weather. These can raise your moving costs and prolong your timeline. Be prepared for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can save you money on moving in Lawrence.

Be communicative

To avoid unexpected 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.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without issue, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed before the move. The movers may need to charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve consented to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Since dependable and affordable movers are highly sought after, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to save some money while still getting your preferred relocation service.

Movers are busiest between May and September. If you have a flexible timeline, consider moving outside of those months, as there may be lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you have difficulty finding an affordable moving provider that meets your needs.

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

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Your family, friends or neighbors may also need to help you move, especially if you have bulky items such as furniture. Movers are worth the cost if you lack the time or anyone who can help you move.

Another option is to find 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 Lawrence

What’s full-service moving?

When you opt for full-service moving, your hired movers will handle the entire moving process. This includes providing packing supplies, providing packing services for your belongings, transporting them and unpacking everything for you.

Full-service moving is more expensive than services that only include loading and transporting your items, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials it saves. Additionally, full-service moving tends to offer better insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are usually only protected up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed items 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 compliant USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in New Jersey are also required to have a license from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

How does moving insurance work?

See what insurance policies your movers provide. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, ask about your mover's full-value protection policies. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're transporting expensive goods — just know that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable time to move is from May through September, creating limited availability and inflated rates countrywide for both large and small moves. Understandably, this might give you pause about making a move during the summertime.

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?

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

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

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

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