10 best movers in Vestavia Hills, Alabama

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for relocating out of Alabama. If you're moving in the Vestavia Hills area, use the filters below to find other movers in your area.

Long-distance movers in Vestavia Hills

A long-distance move means relocating over 50 miles away or from one state to another. If you're moving across state lines, you must be especially cautious that the moving company you use has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database to look up a carrier's licensing status.

The experienced and reputable long-distance moving firms 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 Vestavia Hills is fairly 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 Vestavia Hills is above 87.1% of the country.

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

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

Your total moving cost may also be affected by these additional considerations:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring professional movers, you may have to pay extra for moving fragile, valuable or very bulky items. The following items can be more expensive to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional, but it’s a common practice if your movers provided good service. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays can happen for various reasons, including limited supplies, traffic, bad weather and transportation emergencies. These issues may increase the time and money required. 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 the following tips in mind can reduce your moving expenses in Vestavia Hills.

Be communicative

Keep your movers informed about any modifications to your schedule or inventory, especially when adding items they have to move.

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 estimate for these additions and get your consent to these fees before beginning the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Since dependable and budget-friendly movers are in high demand, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to save some money while still reserving your preferred relocation service.

Peak moving season is between May and September. If you have a flexible timeline, you may want to move outside of those months, as there may be lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

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

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

• Packing supplies
• Fuel
• Moving truck rental

You may also need to get help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading bulky or heavy items such as furniture. Hiring movers is beneficial if you lack the time or anyone to help you move.

Another alternative is to find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. While hiring hourly help can cost less, these independent contractors may not have the necessary licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Vestavia Hills

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will handle every part of the moving process. They provide packing supplies, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Standard moving services are cheaper than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth the extra cost when you factor in the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can provide more comprehensive insurance coverage, as self-packed items are typically only insured up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be tough to get a claim approved for self-packed damaged items.

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 out of state move, you should screen companies for legitimate USDOT and MC numbers beforehand 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?

You’ll also need to check out your mover’s insurance policies. Released-value coverage applies to all moves, which insures 60 cents per pound per item. 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 hotter months, May through September, usher in peak moving demand, leading to limited availability and inflated costs countrywide for substantial and small moves alike. This might dissuade you from a summer relocation given the price hikes. You also may want to steer clear of moving amid Vestavia Hills' intense summertime temperatures, as this could make relocating exceptionally difficult.

We suggest scheduling your move in the spring or early fall months to take advantage of pleasant weather and lower costs for moving services.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

On moving day, keep personal documents like financial records and identification documents in your own car. We also recommend keeping any valuable electronics, such as laptops, with you instead of on the moving truck.

Moving businesses often limit insurance coverage on high-value items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Bring irreplaceable and valuable possessions in your own car if you're nervous about loss or damage.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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