Are you planning on moving locally? If you are, you might be wondering whether you should take advantage of a local moving service or handle the relocation yourself. Let us take a look at the pros and cons of both. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of using a moving service vs. doing it yourself. We also examine how much it will cost you, and we compare a DIY move vs. a full service one.
Pros
Unlike other types of moving, local moving companies don’t charge you for unnecessary extras or hidden charges. Their upfront pricing keeps the moving costs low, as they don’t have to travel long distances. A local moving company can even do the packing for you, so you don’t have to worry about packing everything yourself. The movers can move your entire home in a single day if you hire them. These pros aren’t to be overlooked.
Hiring a local moving company means they already know local moving the area, including parking rules, one-way streets, and more. They also know which climates are best for moving. It may be better to hire a local moving company if you’re moving in an unfamiliar climate. Using local movers will help you move with confidence and minimize the stress of moving. In addition, local movers have the right equipment to pack your possessions safely and efficiently.
Regulations
In New York, household goods movers are required to be licensed and insured, and must carry cargo insurance and publicly file tariffs. In the state of Michigan, local and intrastate household goods movers are regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission, which also oversees commercial vehicle registration, safety compliance, licensing, and insurance. Regulations for local movers in Missouri are governed by the Missouri Department of Transportation, and must obtain a certificate of compliance before moving household goods from one state to another.
As with moving regulations in general, state regulations for local movers can vary by state. For example, in Alabama, moving companies are required to have a license issued by the state. Moving companies must also be registered with the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC), which aims to maintain a balance between consumers and moving companies. Regulations for local moving companies vary by state and are listed alphabetically by state. Regardless of state regulations, there are some general guidelines that movers must follow.
Cost
A two-bedroom move can run you from $1,080 to $1,360 if you hire a three-person crew to transport your items. Moving a four-bedroom home will run you $2,160, or more. For an average four-bedroom home, two movers will charge you around $1,950 for labor and a flat rate of about $190 an hour. If you’re moving long-distance, however, the cost will be much higher, requiring a crew of at least four people.
If you’re moving to an area within a 50-mile radius, your moving company will likely charge you extra for fuel and mileage. During warm seasons and holidays, moving services are more expensive. Also, you should tip movers between five and ten percent of the total bill. These costs may vary, depending on the size of your home, the volume of your items, and the number of movers you hire. Listed below are the factors that will influence the final cost of local moving.
DIY vs. full-service approach
When it comes to local moving, you have several options for movers. You can hire people to move your belongings or you can DIY the whole process. Both options come with their pros and cons. When choosing between DIY and full-service options, it is important to compare both methods and weigh your individual needs. The following table shows how each differs in cost and time. Before you decide between DIY and full-service, consider your personal preferences and experience level.
The cost of DIY moves can be nearly as high as hiring a full-service moving company. You will have to purchase packing materials, hire equipment and pay for gas and accommodations for helpers. Additionally, you may have to carry the items yourself and assume the liability of damage or loss to your belongings. If you choose to move without the help of a professional, you may also want to invest in transit protection.