10 best movers in Suffolk, Virginia

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for relocating out of Virginia. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Suffolk area.

Long-distance movers in Suffolk

A long-distance move is when you move over 50 miles away or relocate from one state to another. Check that the mover you hire has the necessary federal licensing when crossing state lines. Interstate movers must 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 verify a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We’ve confirmed that the long-distance moving companies below have an active license. These reliable movers can help get you and your belongings safely and smoothly 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 Suffolk is relatively 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 Suffolk is above 82.8% of the country.

Moving costs add up fast, as there are many factors involved. The following are typical moving expenses:

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

These additional considerations can cause your total moving cost to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring professional movers, you may have to pay more for moving fragile, valuable or oversized items. These items typically cost more to move:

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

Find out from potential movers whether they move these items and if so, whether they charge additional fees.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they get your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Bad weather, traffic, limited supplies and transportation emergencies can all add time and money to your move. Prepare for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget and keeping a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping these ways in mind can save you money on moving in Suffolk.

Be communicative

Communicate any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. 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 furniture or appliances. The movers may need to adjust their quote for these item, and they’ll need your consent to these fees before beginning the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Move in the off-season or on a weekday to reduce costs and reserve your movers of choice.

Most people schedule moves from May through September. If your timeline is flexible, you may want to move outside of those months, as there may be lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find an affordable moving provider that meets your needs, there are several alternatives to consider.

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

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

You may also need to ask friends, family or neighbors for help moving large items such as furniture. Movers are worth the cost if you lack the time or anyone to help you move.

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 coverage.

FAQ about moving in Suffolk

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will handle the entire 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 transporting your items, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials it saves. Additionally, full-service moving can get you better insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are usually only insured up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be difficult to get a claim accepted for self-packed damaged goods.

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 planning an interstate move, confirm the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Virginia are also required to have a license from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

How does moving insurance work?

Estimate the total worth of your belongings to accurately choose the ideal insurance policy. All companies should offer released-value coverage, which insures items at 60 cents per pound per item. A full-value protection policy may be necessary if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to explore rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable moving time is between May and 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 essential financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping expensive technology with you while moving.

Moving businesses frequently limit insurance coverage on expensive goods, like jewelry and heirlooms. Take irreplaceable and valuable possessions in your own car if you're concerned about loss or damage.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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

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.