10 best movers in Northport, Alabama

The best moving company for moving out of Alabama is International Van Lines. For a local move in the Northport area, use the filters below to find other local moving companies that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Northport

A long-distance move is when you move to another state or over 50 miles away. Make sure the mover you choose has the necessary federal licensing when moving across 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 confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The reliable and experienced long-distance moving services below have an active license. They can help get 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?

Moving within or out of Northport is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Northport is above 73.0% of the country.

Numerous factors are involved in moving, so expenses add up fast. The following are typical moving expenses:

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

Your total cost may also be impacted by these additional factors:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are breakable, valuable or oversized. These items often cost more to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they provide quality service. For local moves, a typical tip is $5–$10 per mover per hour. For long-distance moves, tip $20–$40 per mover per day.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Limited supplies, traffic, bad weather and transportation emergencies can all add time and money to your move. 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

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Northport.

Be communicative

Avoid unexpected charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Be especially communicative about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

For example, small items can usually be added to the truck without issue, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed in advance. The movers may need to charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve consented to the additional charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Reliable, cost-effective movers are in high demand. Consider moving in the off-season or during the week to save some money and still book your preferred relocation service.

The busiest moving period is between May and September. You may get less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move outside of those months.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider taking an alternative route if you can't find an economical that meets your needs.

One alternative is handling the move on your own. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between a moving company and moving on your own:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Your family, friends or neighbors may also need to help you move, especially if you have bulky or heavy items such as furniture. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you don’t have the time or support to commit to self-moving.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack, which can be less expensive. However, these freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Northport

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers handle the entire moving process for you. They provide packing supplies, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving costs more than standard moving services, which typically only include the loading up and transport of your belongings. The price can be justified, considering the time and labor packers save you, as well as covering the cost of packing supplies. Additionally, full-service moving may offer better insurance coverage compared to self-packed goods, which are usually only protected up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be tough.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on all trucks, documents and facilities. 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 Alabama are also required to have a license from the Transportation Division of the Alabama Public Service Commission.

How does moving insurance work?

Review what insurance policies your movers provide. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. However, you may want to inquire about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an additional cost, if your belongings include expensive items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The ideal time to move spans from May to September, leading to much higher demand and elevated pricing for moves both sizable and small. The high summer rates could understandably dissuade you from moving at that time of year.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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 high-end electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies limit insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about potential loss or damage, take those priceless or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

There are certain goods and materials that moving companies aren't allowed to move. These include the following:

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

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.