What is Considered a Local Move?

Moving should be an exciting time, but without the proper planning and assistance, it quickly can become stressful – even for a local move. Knowing the basics surrounding your upcoming local move can help manage expectations and identify what support you’ll need. Understanding what is considered a local move and the difference between local and long-distance moves ensures you have the right moving services for your moves. There are many types of moves, but not all moves are the same. Here are a few things to consider when moving locally. 

Local vs. Long-Distance Moves

A local move is typically one that occurs when moving between two locations within 50 miles or less, while a long distance, intrastate or interstate move, occurs over a longer distance. This is of course in comparison to an interstate move which takes place when moving across state lines.

• Pricing: Traditionally, moving companies charge an hourly rate for short distance local moves, while long distance moves vary and could be a mix of weight or cubic feet, hourly rate and/or travel fees. 

• Pre-Move Surveys: Whether it’s a local vs. long distance move, it’s critical to get a quote based on a visual inspection of your belongings. This can either be done in person or virtually. Every home is different, and a visual survey is the only way to get an accurate quote for your move. It’s also something any reputable moving company should offer for free. Be wary of anyone who charges for a quote. From this survey, moving companies will determine the approximate cost of your move and the amount of space your belongings will occupy on the truck. Hiring a Local Moving Company 

There are good movers and not-so-good movers, and it’s important to know the difference. When researching local move services, it’s tempting to look for ways to save money on moving. Unfortunately, rogue movers prey on budget-conscious families by promising lower prices only to demand a significantly higher one once their belongings are on the truck. They’ll literally keep your belongings hostage unless you pay. While there are resources to help victims of rogue movers, it’s best to stay clear of these scammers when looking for credible movers. 

Ensure that your movers have passed a background check and are trained on the best ways to move your belongings. Depending on the scope of your move, a reputable mover also can provide a moving coordinator to answer questions you may have and provide updates throughout the move process. You also want to review your moving valuation coverage options and select the best one for your needs. Cost Associated with a Local Move 

Like all moves, the cost of a local move is determined by your belongings – both how much you need to move and the delicacy of your items, should anything need specialized packaging and handling. Each moving company’s price may vary, but a home’s size will typically determine the number of people needed on a moving crew. Here is a rule of thumb: 

• 1 bedroom: two movers 

• 2-3 bedrooms: up to three movers 

• 4 bedrooms: up to four movers 

• More than 4 bedrooms: four or more movers 

More experienced movers may require fewer crew members who can safely pack and move your belongings faster than less experienced ones. 

Even for short distance local moves, having experienced help can make a world of difference. It’s still important you properly vet your local moving company to ensure it is reputable and have the expertise and assets to handle your local move effectively. 

Hilldrup has a dedicated team of moving specialists to help streamline your next local move. Whether you’re moving locally or intrastate, our team will be ready to assist you every step of the way. Click here to learn more about how we can help.

George Roth Author

George Roth is the Vice President of Residential Sales where he oversees the Residential Sales team, Customer Care Center, Virtual Survey team and Premium Services Program. George began his career with Hilldrup in 1990 and graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University.