10 best movers in East Ridge, Tennessee

The best long-distance moving company for relocating out of Tennessee is International Van Lines. For a local move in the East Ridge area, use the filters below to find other local companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in East Ridge

A long-distance move means relocating over 50 miles away or from one state to another. Hiring a mover with the right federal licensing is essential if you're crossing state lines. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database to verify a carrier's licensing status.

We’ve confirmed that the long-distance moving companies below are actively licensed. These experienced and reputable movers can help get your belongings safely and smoothly to your new home.

Featured

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?

The average hourly moving rate for relocating within or out of East Ridge is higher than the national average, making it a relatively expensive process. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in East Ridge is above 59.8% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly based on what services you need. Here are some typical moving costs:

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

Your final moving bill may also be influenced by these extra factors:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are valuable, breakable or particularly bulky. Some items that can incur higher fees include the following:

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

When deciding between movers, ask whether they move these items and how much it'll cost.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t required, it’s common if your movers got your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. For long-distance moves, a standard tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Limited supplies, traffic, transportation emergencies and bad weather can all delay your move and add to the time and cost. Although delays are unpredictable, you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can save you money on moving in East Ridge.

Be communicative

To prevent unexpected charges on your moving day, maintain open communication with your movers, especially about items you add to your inventory after getting an estimate from the movers.

For example, your movers can usually add small items to the truck without a problem, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — should be discussed ahead of time. The movers may need to charge more for those items and won’t begin your move until you’ve agreed to the additional charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Schedule your move in the off-season or during the week to lower the cost and book the movers you want.

The busiest moving period is between May and September. Consider moving during other months if you have a flexible schedule, as there may be lower moving rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a cheap moving service that meets your needs, there are alternative routes you can take.

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

• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies
• Fuel

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for moving heavy items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you lack the time or support to commit to self-moving.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack, which can be cheaper. However, these independent contractors may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in East Ridge

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving means the movers tackle all aspects of the moving process, including supplying packing materials, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than standard moving services, which typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, in addition to covering the cost of packing materials. Full-service moving may also offer better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are usually only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be tough to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will present proof of registration on all trucks, documents and facilities. Interstate moves require USDOT and MC numbers, so be sure to vet their registration thoroughly before hiring movers by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Tennessee are also required to have a license from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

How does moving insurance work?

You’ll also need to review your mover’s insurance policies. Every company should offer released-value coverage, which covers items at 60 cents per pound per item. However, you may want to ask about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an extra cost, if your belongings include expensive items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The ideal time to move falls throughout May and September, creating increased demand and raised rates for moves of all sizes. The lofty prices could dissuade you from making a move in the summer. Furthermore, East Ridge's intense summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

We advise moving in the springtime or early autumn so that you have optimal weather conditions and more affordable pricing for services.

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

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and valuable keepsakes in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving businesses restrict insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about potential loss or damage, take those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

There are certain goods and materials that moving companies aren't allowed to move. These include the following:

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

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.