7 best movers in Owensboro, Kentucky

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for relocating out of Kentucky. For a local move in the Owensboro area, use the filters below to find other movers that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Owensboro

A long-distance move is when you relocate more than 50 miles away or move to another state. If you're crossing state boundaries, you need to be especially cautious that the mover you choose has the necessary federal licensing. 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.

We've confirmed 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?

Moving within or out of Owensboro is fairly expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Owensboro is above 58.2% of the country.

Numerous factors are involved in moving, resulting in expenses adding up fast. Typical moving expenses include the following:

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

These extra factors can cause your final moving bill to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are breakable, valuable or particularly large. Some common items that can be more expensive to move include the following:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers isn’t mandatory, but it’s a common practice if your movers handled your belongings with care or made your move stress - free. 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 can happen for several reasons such as transportation emergencies, limited supplies, traffic and bad weather. These issues may add to the duration and cost of your move. Delays are unpredictable, but you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Owensboro.

Be communicative

Prevent 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.

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

Have a flexible schedule

Since reliable and cost-effective 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.

Most people hire movers between May and September. You may find lower moving rates and less competition if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you have difficulty finding a cost - effective moving provider that meets your needs.

Handling the move by yourself is an option. Before going this route, consider the following costs along with the labor required:

• Packing supplies
• Fuel
• Moving truck rental

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 provide significant value if you lack the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack is another option. Hiring hourly help can be more cost-effective, but gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Owensboro

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers take care of the entire moving process for you. They supply packing materials, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is pricier 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 spare you, as well as the packing supplies costs it covers. Additionally, full-service moving tends to offer more comprehensive insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are usually only covered 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?

All legitimate moving businesses will show proof of registration on their fleet vehicles, as well as on paperwork like estimates and agreements. If you're arranging an interstate move, verify the company's USDOT and MC numbers on 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?

Review 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, request information on your mover's full-value protection policies. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're moving valuable goods — just be aware that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable moving time 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 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?

Load up your car with anything too important to lose, such as photos, financial records, identification documents and technology.

Most moving businesses place limits on insurance coverage for high-value goods, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about irreplaceable and valuable items being lost or damaged, take those possessions with you.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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

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.