10 best movers in Scotch Plains, New Jersey

The best long-distance mover for relocating out of New Jersey is International Van Lines. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Scotch Plains area.

Long-distance movers in Scotch Plains

A long-distance move is when you move to a different state or more than 50 miles away. When crossing state lines, ensure your moving company has the right federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To verify a carrier's licensing status, you can input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

The reliable long-distance moving companies below are actively licensed. They can help get you and 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 Scotch Plains is relatively costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Scotch Plains is above 95.8% of the country.

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

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

These additional factors can bring up the cost of your total:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move oversized, valuable or fragile items. The following items can be more expensive to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

While tipping movers is optional, it's common to tip if they provide good service. 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, traffic, transportation emergencies and inclement weather. These can raise your moving costs and prolong your timeline. Prepare for delays by allocating 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget and keeping a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can reduce your moving expenses in Scotch Plains.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Be especially transparent about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

Small items may not be a problem, but make sure they know about large additions such as new furniture or appliances. The movers may charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve consented to the additional charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving during the week or in the off-season can save some money and ensure you book your preferred moving team.

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

Consider alternatives to professional movers

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

You can move by yourself, but consider the following costs along with the labor required:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Your family, friends or neighbors may also need to help you move, especially if you have heavy items such as furniture. Movers are worth the cost if you lack the time or anyone to help you move.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. While hiring hourly help can be cheaper, these gig workers may not have the necessary licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Scotch Plains

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 is pricier than standard moving services, which typically only cover loading and moving your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, in addition to the packing supplies costs it covers. Full-service moving may also offer more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are typically only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will display their proof of registration on physical trucks and formal files. If you're making an interstate move, you should screen companies for legitimate USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in New Jersey are also required to have a license from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

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. Purchasing this supplementary coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving costly or sentimental items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The optimal time to move falls during May to September, leading to much higher demand and pricing for moves both big and small. The high summer rates could understandably steer you away 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?

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

Moving companies frequently limit insurance coverage on high-value goods, like jewelry and heirlooms. Take irreplaceable and valuable belongings in your own car if you're worried about loss or damage.

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

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

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.