Moving Guide

What Is a Local Moving Company?

Published December 7, 2012 · Written for MovingGuru readers since 2013

Local moving companies differ from long-distance moving companies in two major ways.  First, they usually only deal with in-state moves.  Second, they are smaller, which can lead to a different moving experience.

In this article, we will discuss the basics of local, intrastate moving companies, so you know whether one is right for you.

Services

Local moving companies offer the same services as larger, interstate moving companies.  Services commonly include:

  • Packing
  • Loading
  • Driving
  • Storage
  • Unloading

The only limitation is local moving companies do not handle out-of-state moves.  The reason for this is most of them are only licensed to move people within that state and not in other states.

Pricing

Local moving companies don’t differ from national moving companies too much when it comes to pricing.  It’s possible to find a local company that is cheaper.  It’s also possible to find one that’s more expensive.

Long-distance moving companies have more resources, making it easier for them to handle distant moves at an affordable price, but because local moving companies don’t even offer those services, it’s a pointless comparison.

The best way to determine pricing is to just start getting some free moving quotes.

Benefits to Hiring a Local Moving Company

Hiring a local moving companies has a number of benefits, if you find a reputable one.  If you are moving a short distance, here is why you should at least consider a local moving company:

  • Knowledgeable – Local companies know the local areas, making it more likely your stuff gets where it needs to be on time.
  • Better to Communicate with – You can usually call up a local company and talk directly to the company owner.  Certainly, they’re more accessible than large moving companies with phone centers.
  • More Consistent – If you read a good review about a local company, it will probably apply to your move, too, because it will probably be the same people helping you.

Local moving companies are great, but, again, they often don’t cross state lines.  If you’re moving out of state, it’s time to contact a long-distance moving company.

Related Articles:

Reputable Moving Companies

How to Find a Moving Company

Deciding How to Move

Flat-Rate Moving Companies

How Much Do Movers Charge?

Questions to Ask Your Moving Company

Filed under:Moving Companies

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