10 best movers in Prattville, Alabama

International Van Lines is the best moving company for interstate moves. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move around Prattville.

Long-distance movers in Prattville

A long-distance move is when you relocate more than 50 miles away or move to a different state. Check that the mover you choose has the proper 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 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?

Relocating within or out of Prattville is fairly costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Prattville is higher than 77.1% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly, as there are numerous factors involved. Common moving expenses include the following:

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

These additional considerations can cause your final moving bill to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are breakable, valuable or particularly large. The following items commonly are more expensive to move:

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

When vetting movers, ask whether they move these items and how much it'll cost.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional, but it’s common if your movers provided quality service. For long-distance moves, a standard tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Transportation emergencies, traffic, bad weather and limited supplies can all make your move more expensive and take longer. Although delays are unpredictable, 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

The following tips can save you money on moving in Prattville.

Be communicative

Prevent surprise charges the day of your move by communicating with your movers as much as possible. Inform them of additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory.

Small items may not be an issue, but make sure they know about large additions such as new appliances or furniture. The movers may need to adjust their charges for these item and get your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Dependable, affordable movers are in high demand. Consider moving in the off-season or during the week to save some money and still book your preferred moving team.

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 have difficulty finding a cheap mover that meets your needs.

While you can move on your own, weigh the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

You may also need to ask family, friends or neighbors for help moving large or heavy items such as furniture. If you don't have the time or support system needed for a self-move, hiring movers is valuable.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can cost less, but gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Prattville

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving means the movers take care of all aspects of the moving process, including providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving costs more than services that only include loading and moving your belongings, but it can be worth the extra cost considering the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Full-service moving may also offer more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are typically only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on their transport trucks, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're coordinating an interstate move, check the company's USDOT and MC numbers on 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?

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. A full-value protection policy may be practical if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to review all rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The prime moving time is from May through September, creating limited availability and inflated costs countrywide for both big and small moves. Understandably, this might cause you to think twice about making a move during the summertime.

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?

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your own car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

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

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

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