4 best movers in Meridian, Mississippi

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for relocating out of Mississippi. If you're moving in the Meridian area, use the filters below to find other movers in your area.

Long-distance movers in Meridian

A long-distance move means moving more than 50 miles away or from one state to another. If you're crossing state boundaries, you need to be especially careful that the moving company you choose has the right federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To confirm a carrier's licensing status, you can input the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

We've verified that the long-distance movers 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?

While moving can be an expensive process, the average hourly rate for moving services in Meridian is lower than the national average. Despite the cost of living in Meridian only being higher than 58.0% of the country, moving prices in the area are more affordable than expected.

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

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

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

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move oversized, fragile or valuable items. These items typically are more expensive to move:

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

If you have to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t required, it’s customary if your movers got 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 transportation emergencies, inclement weather, a lack of supplies and traffic. These can increase your moving costs and prolong your timeline. Be prepared for delays by budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you and keeping a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can reduce your moving expenses in Meridian.

Be communicative

To avoid unexpected charges on your moving day, maintain open communication with your movers, particularly about items you add to your inventory after getting an estimate from the movers.

Small items may not pose an issue, but make sure they know about large additions such as new furniture or appliances. Additional fees may apply for these items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve consented to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

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

Peak moving season is from May through September. If you have a flexible timeline, you may want to move outside of those months, as there may be lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find an affordable moving provider that meets your needs, there are alternative routes you can take.

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

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading heavy items such as furniture. Professional movers are worth it if you don’t have the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

Another alternative is to find movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack. While hiring hourly help can be less expensive, these freelance service providers may not have the necessary licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Meridian

What’s full-service moving?

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

Full-service moving is more expensive than standard moving services, which typically only cover the loading up and transport of your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers save you, as well as the packing materials costs it covers. Additionally, full-service moving tends to offer better insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are typically only insured up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be challenging.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will show their proof of registration on physical trucks and formal files. If you're making an out of state move, you should screen companies for legitimate USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Mississippi are also required to have a license from the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

How does moving insurance work?

You’ll also need to check out 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. However, you may want to ask about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an additional cost, if your belongings include high-worth items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The best moving time falls during May and September, creating increased demand and heightened rates for moves of all sizes. The lofty prices could deter you from making a move in the summer. Furthermore, Meridian's extreme summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose even more 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?

On moving day, keep personal documents like financial records and identification documents in your own car. We also recommend keeping any valuable electronics, such as laptops, with you instead of on the moving truck.

Many moving businesses restrict insurance coverage for high-value goods, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about irreplaceable and valuable items being lost or damaged, keep those possessions with you.

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

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

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.