10 best movers in Mountain Brook, Alabama

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for relocating out of Alabama. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Mountain Brook area.

Long-distance movers in Mountain Brook

A long-distance move means relocating more than 50 miles away or to another state. Hiring a mover with the proper federal licensing is crucial if you're crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers must 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 check a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The long-distance moving companies below are reliable and have an active license. They can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

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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 relocating within or out of Mountain Brook is higher than the national average, making itrelatively costly. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in Mountain Brook is above 90.5% of the country.

Many factors are involved in moving, resulting in expenses adding up quickly. The following are common moving expenses:

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

These extra considerations can add even more cost to your final moving bill:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring a moving companiy, you may have to pay more for moving valuable, fragile or very large items. The following items can cost more to move:

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and 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. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as a lack of supplies, inclement weather, transportation emergencies and traffic. These can add to your moving costs and extend your timeline. You can't avoid delays, but you can prepare for them by being flexible with your schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can save you money on moving in Mountain Brook.

Be communicative

Prevent unexpected charges the day of your move by communicating with your movers as much as possible. Be especially communicative about items you’re adding 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 furniture or appliances should be discussed ahead of time. The movers may need to adjust their estimate for these item and get your consent to these fees before beginning 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 hiring your preferred moving team.

Most people hire moving companies between May and September. If your timeline is flexible, consider moving outside of those months, as there won’t be as much competition or as high of moving rates.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider taking an alternative route if you can't find an economical moving service that works for you.

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

• Packing supplies
• Fuel
• Moving truck rental

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

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack, which can be cheaper. However, these gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Mountain Brook

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 to the new location and unpacking them.

Full-service moving costs more than services that only include loading and moving your belongings, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials it saves. Full-service moving may also provide better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are usually only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be tough to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on all official documents like estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should check a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an out of state move by checking the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Alabama are also required to have a license from the Transportation Division of the Alabama Public Service Commission.

How does moving insurance work?

Determine the full worth of your belongings to accurately choose the most suitable insurance policy. Released-value coverage applies to all moves, which insures 60 cents per pound per item. Getting this additional coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving expensive or sentimental items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable moving time falls throughout May and September, creating increased demand and heightened rates for moves of all scopes. The lofty prices could dissuade you from making a move in the summer. Additionally, Mountain Brook's extreme summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose even more challenges.

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?

On moving day, carry personal documents like financial records and identification documents in your own car. Additionally, we recommend keeping any expensive electronics, such as laptops, with you instead of on the moving truck.

Many moving businesses restrict insurance coverage on high-value possessions, like jewelry and family heirlooms. Keep these yourself, as well as any other irreplaceable belongings, if you're concerned about possible loss or damage.

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

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

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.