10 best movers in Louisville, Kentucky

The best long-distance mover for relocating out of Kentucky is International Van Lines. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move around Louisville.

Long-distance movers in Louisville

A long-distance move is when you relocate to another state or more than 50 miles away. Hiring a moving company with the necessary federal licensing is essential if you're crossing state lines. Interstate movers are required to 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 confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The experienced and reliable long-distance moving services below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

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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 Louisville is greater than the national average, making it a relatively expensive process. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Louisville is above 66.5% of the country.

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

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

These extra considerations can cause your total cost to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are valuable, fragile or particularly large. Some common items that can incur higher fees include the following:

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and if so, whether they charge extra.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t required, it’s common if your movers handled your belongings with care or made your move stress - free. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays are common due to issues such as a lack of supplies, transportation emergencies, inclement weather and traffic. These can increase your moving costs and extend your timeline. 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 save you money on moving in Louisville.

Be communicative

Prevent surprise charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Notify them about additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without issue, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed in advance. The movers may need to adjust their estimate for these item and get your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Since dependable and cost-effective movers are highly sought after, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to lower the cost while still reserving your preferred moving company.

Most people schedule moves between May and September. If your timeline is flexible, moving during less busy months may result in lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you can't find a cost - effective moving company that meets your needs.

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

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from friends, family or neighbors for loading and unloading bulky or heavy items such as furniture. Hiring movers is beneficial if you don't have the time or anyone to help you move.

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

FAQ about moving in Louisville

What’s full-service moving?

When you choose full-service moving, your hired movers will manage all aspects of the moving process. This includes providing packing supplies, providing packing services for your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Standard moving services are more affordable than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth it when you factor in the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Full-service moving may also offer better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are generally only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be difficult to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will present proof of registration on all sites, trucks and documents. Interstate moves require USDOT and MC numbers, so be sure to inspect their registration completely before hiring movers by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Kentucky are also required to have a license from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

How does moving insurance work?

Check what insurance policies your movers provide. Every company should offer released-value coverage, which covers items at 60 cents per pound per item. 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 moving time is May to September, creating limited availability and inflated rates countrywide for both large and small moves. Understandably, you might hesitate to make a move during the summertime.

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 valuable keepsakes in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies restrict insurance coverage for costly items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about potential loss or damage, keep 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:

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

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.