10 best movers in Kettering, Ohio

International Van Lines is the best mover for interstate moves. For a local move in the Kettering area, use the filters below to find other companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in Kettering

A long-distance move is when you relocate more than 50 miles away or move to another state. When crossing state boundaries, check that your moving company has the right federal licensing. 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.

The experienced long-distance movers below have an active license. They can help get your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

Our Top Pick

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?

Moving within or out of Kettering is relatively costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Kettering is above 47.9% of the country.

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

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

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

Transporting specialty items

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

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and if so, whether they charge additional fees.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t mandatory, it’s common if your movers handled your belongings with care or made your move less stressful. For local moves, a typical tip is $5–$10 per mover per hour. For long-distance moves, tip $20–$40 per mover per day.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as transportation emergencies, a lack of supplies, traffic and inclement weather. These can raise your moving costs and prolong your timeline. Although delays are unpredictable, you can prepare for them by keeping a flexible schedule and allocating 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to lower moving expenses in Kettering.

Be communicative

Avoid unexpected charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Be especially communicative about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

Small items may not pose an issue, but make sure they know about large additions such as new furniture or appliances. The movers may charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve consented to the additional charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Move in the off-season or during the week to save money and reserve your movers of choice.

Movers are busiest from May through September. You may find less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can plan your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a cheap moving company that works for you, there are several alternatives to consider.

One alternative is handling the move yourself. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between a moving company and moving by yourself:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from friends, family or neighbors for loading and unloading large items such as furniture. Movers are worth the cost if you don't have the time or anyone to help you move.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack is another option. While hiring hourly help can be more affordable, these independent contractors may not have the necessary licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Kettering

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your hired movers tackle all aspects of the moving process for you. They supply packing materials, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

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

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on all official documents like estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should verify a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an interstate move by checking the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Ohio are also required to have a license from the Ohio Public Utilities Commission.

How does moving insurance work?

You’ll also need to review your mover’s insurance policies. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. Adding this additional coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving costly or irreplaceable items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months — May through September — are the peak time to move in the U.S., which creates substantially increased demand and significantly higher rates across the country for moves of all sizes. With good reason, this may steer you away from a summer move due to the higher cost.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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 own car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

Many moving businesses cap insurance coverage for expensive items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about possible loss or damage, pack those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

There are certain goods and materials prohibited for transportation by movers. These include the following:

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

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.