Moving can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, especially when time is working against you. Finding reliable movers at the last minute can feel like navigating a complex maze. We’ve created this guide to help you find the best moving companies that can help you, even when your timeline feels tight. With the right information and approach, you can secure professional, efficient movers to handle your belongings with care, even on short notice.
The Best Moving Companies for Last-Minute Moves
Allied Van Lines offers some of the best full-service moving options for last-minute moves due to its specialized service for quick relocations, Allied Express. North American Van Lines (NAVL) offers comparable options. However, if you have fewer belongings and don’t mind the work involved in a self-service move, 1-800-PACK-RAT and U-Haul offer excellent options.
Comparing the Best Last-Minute Movers
The table below compares our top movers for last-minute moves on key factors such as average cost and license type. Each provider offers services for quick relocation. To get accurate pricing, we requested quotes from each provider for a two-bedroom move ranging between 500 and 800 miles.
*The Better Business Bureau is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of February 2025.
**We calculated average moving costs based on five quotes for moves ranging between 500 and 800 miles.
These companies offer a mix of full-service moving options, such as packing and loading, as well as self-service options, such as portable storage container moves and moving truck rentals. We made sure that all shared the capability to accommodate last-minute moves through these services and their standard scheduling procedures.
| Specialty Services Offered | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | International Van Lines | 1-800-PACK-RAT | U-Haul |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle shipping | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Fragile-only packing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Furniture disassembly/reassembly | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Crating | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Appliance and electronics handling | ✔ | ✔ | X | ✔ | ✔ |
| Antique/specialty services | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Piano moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Office moves | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
Key Moving Terms Explained
The moving industry has its own language with various key terms you’ll encounter when searching for the perfect company. Below, we break down some of the most important moving industry jargon in plain language.
- Expedited services: Expedited services prioritize your move, typically guaranteeing a much shorter timeframe between booking and delivery. These services come at a premium price but can be a lifesaver when time is of the essence. While standard moves might have a 7–14 day delivery window, expedited services can reduce this to 1–5 days.
- Standby capacity/emergency moving: Standby moving services are designed for those who need to move quickly and can be flexible. Moving companies with standby capacity keep slots open for last-minute moves, often filling gaps in their existing schedules. This can be particularly useful if you’re willing to be somewhat flexible with your exact moving date in exchange for a quicker and cost-effective relocation.
- Carriers: A carrier is a moving company that handles everything in-house, from start to finish. When you work with a carrier, you’re dealing directly with the people who will pack, transport, and unload your belongings. This direct line of communication means fewer chances of miscommunication and a clearer path to resolution if anything goes wrong.
- Brokers: Instead of having their own moving trucks and teams, moving brokers connect you with a network of third-party moving companies. While they can sometimes offer lower rates, this approach comes with a catch. The service quality can vary widely since you’re not working with a single, consistent team. If something gets damaged during the move, you might find yourself in a frustrating situation with various communication channels between the broker and the actual moving company.
- Van lines: These are large networks of moving companies that collaborate to handle long-distance relocations. A van line can operate as a carrier, a broker, or sometimes both. They’re especially useful for moves that cross state lines or cover significant distances.
- Binding estimates: A binding estimate is a price lock for your move. After a thorough inventory of your belongings, the moving company provides a guaranteed price. They help provide no surprises and no last-minute price hikes. It’s the moving equivalent of a fixed-rate mortgage.
- Nonbinding estimates: Sometimes called ballpark quotes, this is when the company provides an estimated price, but your final bill could change based on the actual weight of your items and specific services used. It’s an initial quote that’s subject to change.
- Not-to-exceed estimates: These are rare but incredibly helpful. A not-to-exceed estimate sets a maximum price for your move, but you could end up paying less if your belongings are lighter than expected. It’s a win-win scenario that protects your wallet.
Our Reviews of the Best Last-Minute Movers
All of our recommended moving companies cater to short-notice moves, but there are some differences between them that we dive into below. These differences determine which provider is better suited for your specific moving needs.
Company Overview
- Provides specialized services for quick moves through Allied Express with designated single points of contact and detailed upfront quotes
- Will pay you $75 for each day your Allied Express shipment is delayed
- Has the most comprehensive service selection for last-minute moves on this list
Keep in Mind
- Focuses on smaller moves (less than two bedrooms) for its Allied Express service
- Has more broken-down trucks than other movers on this list
Our Review
Allied Van Lines (USDOT #076235) stands out as a versatile option for those needing quick, adaptable moving services. Unlike many companies that offer just one moving method, Allied provides full-service moving, which handles everything from packing to loading, as well as portable moving containers, which are perfect for those who want more control.
Allied’s portable container option, Allied Express, is great for last-minute moves. Allied drops a container at your doorstep, you pack it at your own pace, and Allied transports it to your new home. It’s significantly more budget-friendly than traditional full-service moves and gives you breathing room during a potentially stressful transition.
Allied also shines for last-minute movers as it offers a delivery date guarantee with real financial backing. If your container shipment is delayed, Allied will pay you $75 per day. This isn’t just a promise—it’s a commitment backed by compensation.
Customer Experiences
Allied’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating is 1.08 out of 5 stars. Despite this low review score, Allied maintains an A+ rating and BBB accreditation. This seemingly contradictory information is quite common in the moving industry, especially for companies of Allied’s size. Allied’s service quality differs by location. Its Atlanta, Georgia location, for example, boasts a solid 3.8 out of 5-star rating on Google Reviews. This difference suggests that your moving experience might depend significantly on which local Allied team handles your move.
“Our move from GA back home to Indiana couldn’t have been better. [The movers] were amazing and cared about our things like they were theirs. The packing was done so well that we didn’t worry about anything being broken. Great experience all the way around. Glad we used [Allied] for our most recent move home…wish I would have used them for my previous move to GA as it was a nightmare. Thank you Allied for taking the stress out of moving.” —Joanne Tedesco via Google Reviews, November 2024
“I moved across the country to another state which was a very expensive move. … Upon finding a new house a local Allied team then moved my belongings from the storage unit to the house. When unwrapped at the new house it was discovered that my antique China cabinet had been severely damaged as the glass on one side was broken. In addition when taken from the box a big screen television was cracked. The local Allied movers informed me that the movers in the previous state had obviously not packed the items correctly.I subsequently filed a damage claim for these items. However, that process has been extremely frustrating.” —Stephanie D. via BBB, September 2024
Company Overview
- Provides additional benefits that make moves go faster, such as virtual surveys and 24-hour customer support
- Has a detailed and transparent claims process and a dedicated claims department
- Uses the same 500+ agent network as Allied, so you can get connected quickly
Keep in Mind
- Focuses on smaller moves for quick turnarounds
- Provides varying quality by location, according to customer reviews
Our Review
Like Allied, North American Van Lines (USDOT #: 070851) is excellent if you want last-minute movers who provide flexibility and comprehensive support. Operating under the same parent company as Allied, North American Van Lines (NAVL) offers comparable expedited services at potentially different pricing and scheduling.
What truly sets NAVL apart is its item protection options. The company goes beyond the two insurance options required by law, creating multiple ways to safeguard your most precious items. Even more impressive, it’s the only moving company on this list with a dedicated claims department. Instead of bouncing between generic customer service representatives, you have a specialized team focused solely on addressing any issues with your move. The company is great for those who are short on time, those who are moving delicate or valuable items, or anyone who views moving as an investment in stress reduction.
Customer Experiences
NAVL’s ratings are somewhat mixed. Its headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has a 1.31 out of 5-star rating on the BBB and a 3.2 out of 5-star rating on Google Reviews. While these ratings might raise concerns, it’s worth noting that some customers have had positive experiences. Many appreciated NAVL’s competitive pricing and the support provided by their coordinators, who frequently checked in to ensure everything was on track. This level of communication can be especially reassuring during the chaos of a last-minute move.
However, some customers reported issues such as lost boxes or damaged items during their moves. If you’re considering NAVL, we recommend taking advantage of its insurance options. These can provide peace of mind and financial protection should anything go awry.
“Our move went well. Brighton was polite and knowledgeable. We did have one issue in which something was put on the truck that we specifically said should not go. Other than that, all was good.” —Leslie Sciandra via Google Reviews, December 2024
“A wine cooler got damaged in the relocation. North American fell back on their fine print claim of jostling by the truck caused the damage and they were not liable. … If this jostling caused the damage, then the item was not packed and stored properly for which they are liable. … As a result of my research and having an appliance electrician look at the unit, a reasonable and more likely cause was presented to them. That cause is that the unit was laid on its side, upon being stood up and plugged in directly, the damage to the coils, etc. would have happened. They rejected this conclusion and went with their fall back fine print claim of jostling, with no evidence, in order to avoid paying the claim.” —Richard P. via BBB, November 2024
Company Overview
- Has the lowest average price of all the movers on our list
- Features a fast quoting process to speed up scheduling
- Includes 30 days of free storage
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t offer flat-rate pricing or binding estimates, so you may be hit with surprise fees
- Isn’t ideal for fast local moves due to high pricing
Our Review
When it comes to last-minute moves, International Van Lines (USDOT #: 2293832) shines as a budget-friendly choice without compromising quality. Among the full-service moving companies we reviewed, International Van Lines (IVL) consistently offers lower rates, making it an excellent option for those looking to save money. Despite its affordability, IVL provides a wide range of services that rival those of higher-priced competitors, giving you great value for your investment.
A standout feature of IVL is its ability to manage every aspect of your move under one roof. Unlike many other moving companies that may outsource specialized tasks—such as piano or vehicle shipping—to third-party providers, IVL handles everything internally. This streamlined approach means you’ll have a single point of contact throughout your move, which can simplify communication and help prevent issues. This is particularly beneficial for complex interstate relocations involving bulky or high-value items.
Getting started with IVL is also easy and fast. Its online cost calculator provides a quick, no-fuss estimate without requiring a detailed inventory upfront. While this tool is convenient, it’s important to note that the estimates it offers are nonbinding. Your final cost could be higher based on the actual weight of your belongings and the specific services you require, so keep that in mind while planning.
IVL’s focus on affordability does come with some trade-offs. Unlike premium providers such as JK Moving or Allied, IVL doesn’t offer the same level of high-end, concierge-style services. Additionally, its reliance on nonbinding estimates can make it harder to predict your final price with complete certainty, which might be a drawback if you prefer more precise budgeting.
Customer Experiences
Like many of its competitors, IVL has received mixed customer reviews. On the BBB, it has an average rating of 3.02 out of 5 stars based on 115 reviews. Meanwhile, its headquarters’ Google Reviews page paints a brighter picture, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 1,300 reviews. This variation in feedback highlights the importance of understanding both the strengths and potential challenges of working with IVL.
Many customers praise IVL’s movers for being helpful and professional, often mentioning how they made the moving process feel smooth and stress-free. These positive experiences are valuable for last-minute moves that need efficiency and reliability during a potentially hectic time. However, some reviews raise concerns about communication and scheduling issues.
“I recently used International Van Lines for my long-distance move, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the service! From start to finish, they were professional, efficient, and incredibly helpful. The booking process was smooth, with clear communication from the beginning, and they provided a detailed estimate that didn’t change at the last minute. On moving day, the crew arrived on time, worked quickly, and handled all of my items with great care. My belongings arrived at my new home exactly when promised, without a single scratch or dent.” —Marly Zelaya via Google Reviews, December 2024
“The customer is responsible for any follow up or communication. *** uses multiple contractors and storage sites, and neglects to inform customers of this during the sales process. They provide no oversight and take no responsibility for communication during the moving process. You can absolutely count on 21+ days to deliver and 0 communication or responsibility taking during the process.” —John W. via the BBB, October 2024
Company Overview
- Gives you the flexibility to determine pick-up and drop-off dates on the go
- Price-matches other moving container companies, such as PODS
- Completes moves in less than 10 days if the move is less than 1,500 miles
Keep in Mind
- Requires a minimum rental period for containers, so you may pay for more time than you need
- May offer limited first-party assistance for local moving based on your proximity to a branch, so PACK-RAT might outsource the move
Our Review
1-800-PACK-RAT (USDOT #: 1534531) is particularly well-suited for high-pressure, last-minute moves. The company’s container design alone is a game-changer: Its all-steel, ground-level containers eliminate multiple common moving day headaches. For example, its barn-style doors and low-to-ground loading mean you can pack quickly without navigating steep ramps or awkward entry points. This design saves precious hours during a last-minute move.
With PACK-RAT, you control the pace. The company drops off the container, and you pack when you can, whether that’s over a frantic weekend or in spurts between other urgent tasks. Not everyone has the luxury of weeks of careful packing, and PACK-RAT caters to this. The range of container sizes (8-, 12-, and 16-feet) allows you to quickly select a container that matches your immediate needs without wasting time hunting for alternative solutions. We found the company’s scheduling process for these containers to be quick, as each sample quote took us only around 5–10 minutes to get.
Its partnership with HireAHelper adds another layer of last-minute adaptability, though the service quality of the moving labor might vary. Storage can be another important factor in last-minute moves. Maybe your new living situation isn’t immediately ready, or you need a brief holding space during a transition. PACK-RAT’s ability to store containers at its facilities provides a buffer, giving you breathing room when timelines get complicated.
Customer Experiences
Customer experiences with PACK-RAT are balanced. The company has a 2.51 out of 5-star rating on the BBB based on 340 reviews, but it has a 4.1 out of 5-star rating for its headquarters on Google Reviews. Positive reviews consistently highlight three key strengths: fair pricing, reliable on-time deliveries, and responsive customer service. Many customers appreciate that company representatives are helpful and easily connect them with additional moving resources when needed.
Some customers have reported mechanical issues, including vehicle breakdowns during transit. However, PACK-RAT’s approach to these complaints sets them apart. The company actively monitors and responds to feedback on the BBB, often addressing concerns directly and offering to provide customer compensation.
“Pack Rat was the easiest part of my move…. The Pack Rat people were so easy to work with even when I had to make changes. The drivers were great on both the drop off and pick up. I tipped the drop off driver because he was so good at placing the containers on my very steep driveway and making the containers level with blocks even in the rain.” —Cynthia H. via the BBB, December 2024
“My container was delivered filthy inside (garbage, debris, and dirt), and without a lock (as promised). Latch was so rusted that we couldn’t find a lock to secure it on our own. Inside, things were loose and it felt unsafe. I moved 1/2 mile away and was told I couldn’t do a curb-to-curb delivery and needed to schedule redelivery (with fee). The driver told me this is untrue and that my pod could have been delivered directly to my new home. It was VERY difficult to reach customer service or to get answers or any resolution at all. I was repeatedly told that my case was being ‘escalated’ to the ‘resolution team’ – which never happened.” —Janice Sann via Google Reviews, August 2024
U-Haul
Company Overview
- Provides flexibility through a large catalog of truck sizes
- Has more than 23,000 locations nationwide, making it easy to find locations
- Features incredibly fast scheduling and lets you have complete control over your rental period
Keep in Mind
- May change pickup and drop-off locations suddenly, per customer reviews
- Might include some hidden costs, such as fuel and extra storage
Our Review
U-Haul’s (USDOT #: 2220242) strength lies in its diverse fleet and nationwide availability. It offers vehicles from compact vans to 26-foot trucks, making it ideal for any size move. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for last-minute moves when you need the right truck size without excess costs.
The straightforward pricing model simplifies budgeting during a time-sensitive move. U-Haul accepts various payment methods and allows upfront or pickup payment options, reducing financial stress. A standout feature is the $50 reservation guarantee, which provides a refund if U-Haul fails to meet your requirements. For those seeking alternatives, U-Haul’s U-Box portable storage containers offer a convenient mix of full-service moving and truck rentals. The mobile app brings more convenience and streamlines pickup and drop-off processes, which can be crucial on short-notice moving days.
However, you should consider potential trade-offs. While U-Haul is affordable, additional costs for fuel, mileage, and insurance can add up, especially for long-distance moves. You’ll also be responsible for loading, driving, and unloading, requiring a personal commitment that may be overwhelming. Before choosing U-Haul for your last-minute move, assess your time, physical capability, and comfort with driving a large truck in unfamiliar areas.
Customer Experiences
Despite its A+ BBB rating, U-Haul’s headquarters page shows a stark 1.1 out of 5 stars. However, this overall score can be misleading. Customer experiences vary dramatically by location. A Denver U-Haul branch, for instance, maintains a more moderate 3-star Google Reviews rating. This shows the importance of researching specific branches rather than relying on blanket corporate ratings.
Negative reviews highlight two main issues: customer service quality and billing disputes. Customers report encountering rude staff and challenges with service charges, including instances of double billing. These concerns can add significant stress to an already complicated moving process. Positive reviews emphasize U-Haul’s affordability. Many customers appreciate the company’s competitive pricing and view truck rentals as a fast, cost-effective moving solution.
“This location was absolutely the best service I’ve ever had so far in Colorado. And the cargo was literally like brand new. I made sure to keep everything as clean as possible just because it was in such good shape. And 9 am it opened on time with really friendly guys willing to help out anyone that walked through the door, plus they are recycle friendly/enthusiasts! yay for more environmentally conscious folks!” —Catherine Berrouet via Google Review, September 2024
“I rented a 4×8 enclosed trailer, understanding it would not be waterproof. It wasn’t water resistant either. My personal belongings have incurred extensive water damage.I have filed a claim. U-Haul’s insurance has tactics in place such as not responding, hanging up, etc… to avoid having to do the right thing. To be honest, having quality service and products would be the right thing to begin.” —Matthew W. via the BBB, December 2024
How Much Does a Last-Minute Move Cost?
Understanding moving costs requires peeling back multiple financial layers, and last-minute moves introduce their own unique pricing dynamics. The average long-distance move typically ranges between $4,190 and $7,125, depending on the size of your home and the total distance traveled. To determine these figures, we analyzed data from multiple moving companies, simulating the initial portion of the quote process with each one for at least five different moves. We then averaged these prices.
Last-minute moves introduce an important pricing difference. While the base moving costs remain relatively stable, the urgency factor can increase your total expenses by 10%–25%. This increase is because moving companies often charge premium rates for the following:
- Condensed scheduling windows
- Higher risk of complications
- Immediate equipment or personnel availability
- Reduced time for logistical planning
The closer you get to your moving date, the more you’ll likely pay. A move scheduled two weeks in advance might cost significantly less than one arranged with just 72 hours’ notice.
Practically speaking, this means a move that would normally cost $1,200 could easily climb to $1,500 or more when done on short notice. The exact increase depends on the following factors:
- Current moving company capacity
- Season (summer moves are traditionally more expensive)
- Specific local market conditions
- The complexity of your moving needs
Home Size
Home size directly impacts moving costs through two factors: volume of belongings and labor requirements. For a studio or one-bedroom apartment, you’ll typically need 1–2 movers and a smaller truck, which costs around $3,000. A three-bedroom move requires more personnel, potentially 3–4 movers, and a larger truck, which can push costs to $8,000.
Last-minute moves amplify these differences. Larger homes need more advanced planning, so urgent relocations become more expensive. A studio move might see a 10%–15% price increase, while a four-bedroom move could face 25%–30% higher rates due to the complexity of quickly coordinating multiple movers and larger equipment.
The table below shows the average cost of long-distance moves across different home sizes and distances. We obtained pricing information by requesting 84 binding estimates from 11 moving companies. Keep in mind that these quotes were planned for moves 3–4 months out and not at the last minute.
| Number of Bedrooms | 1 Bedroom (2,000–4,000 lbs) | 2 Bedrooms (4,000–7,000 lbs) | 3 Bedrooms (7,000–10,000 lbs) | 4 Bedrooms (10,000+ lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | Average Cost | Average Cost | Average Cost | Average Cost |
| <1,000 miles | $3,540 | $5,605 | $7,970 | $12,900 |
| 1,000–1,500 miles | $4,190 | $7,125 | $10,125 | $14,800 |
| >1,500 miles | $4,340 | $7,375 | $10,325 | $16,600 |
Single-Day vs. Multiday Moves
When it comes to last-minute moves, single-day and multi-day options significantly affect the price. Single-day moves are typically more affordable because they require less time and fewer resources. Multi-day moves, on the other hand, involve additional labor and logistics, and possibly overnight expenses, which increases the cost. For urgent, large-scale, or long-distance relocations, the extended timeline of a multi-day move may be necessary, but it comes with a higher price tag due to the extra coordination and effort involved.
Full-Service vs. Partial-Service Moves
Full-service moves, where professionals handle everything from packing and loading to transport and unpacking, are more expensive because they require more time, labor, and resources. Partial-service moves, where you handle some tasks like packing while movers focus on loading and transport, can reduce costs but require more effort on your part. While full-service is ideal for a stress-free experience under tight deadlines, partial-service moves offer a budget-friendly compromise for last-minute relocations.
Tipping
Tipping is an important factor in the overall cost of a last-minute move, as it shows appreciation for the movers’ hard work, especially under tight deadlines. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s customary to tip around 10%–20% of the total cost or $20–$50 per mover, depending on the size and complexity of the job. For challenging or rushed moves, a more generous tip is often appreciated and can go a long way in acknowledging the movers’ effort and professionalism.
How To Get a Good Price on a Last-Minute Move
Getting a good price for a last-minute move may seem challenging, but with a few strategic steps, you can save money and reduce stress. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Ask about discounts: Some companies offer last-minute specials, military discounts, or deals for students. It never hurts to ask.
- Be flexible: Movers may offer lower rates for mid-week or off-peak hours. Avoid weekends and month-end if possible.
- Be ready to move: Having everything packed and organized can reduce labor time and costs. Movers often charge by the hour.
- Downsize: The fewer items you move, the lower the cost. Donate, sell, or discard unnecessary items before the movers arrive.
- Get multiple quotes: Reach out to at least two to three moving companies to compare prices and find the best deal.
- Opt for partial service: Save money by handling some tasks yourself, like packing or disassembling furniture.
Nailing Down Your Moving Timeline
When a move is last-minute, time is of the essence, and having a clear plan—even in a crunch—can make all the difference. Here’s a timeline to help you tackle everything efficiently, with tips to speed up the process so you stay on track.
- Day 1: Call multiple reputable movers to secure availability quickly. Be flexible with timing and services to increase your options. For boxes, tape, and supplies, go to a local hardware store, big-box retailer, or moving company. To save time, ask stores for wardrobe boxes or pre-packed moving kits.
- Day 2: Declutter and prioritize packing. Create three piles: keep, donate, and trash. If you’re unsure about something, keep it simple: it’s coming with you, or it’s not. Pack a “must-have” box with items like medications, toiletries, important documents, and a change of clothes. This box stays with you during the move. Focus on one area at a time to stay organized and efficient. Use garbage bags for soft items like clothes and linens—quick to pack and easy to carry.
- Day 3: Use a bold marker and write directly on boxes or color-code with tape to indicate rooms. Don’t waste time on fancy labels—clear and quick is key. Update your address with the post office online and alert utilities, landlords, and key contacts. This can be done in a single afternoon. Break down furniture (beds, tables, etc.) the night before the move. Keep tools and hardware in labeled sandwich bags so nothing gets lost.
- Moving Day: Have everything packed, labeled, and near the door for quick loading. Give movers instructions on what to load first and if there are any fragile items or priority boxes. Check every room, closet, and drawer to make sure nothing is left behind.
Advice From Real Moving Customers
Though it may seem like a self-service move with a company like PACK-RAT or U-Haul would be faster, we’ve found that full-service companies assist just as much with last-minute moves. What self-service companies tend to make up for in scheduling flexibility, full-service movers make up for with the actual move.
For example, one customer we interviewed, John, used a local moving company called Hornet Moving near Charlotte, North Carolina. He shared that the movers did a good job communicating with him ahead of time about expectations, such as what they would do and what they would not do, and checked in with him once or twice ahead of moving day. He described them as quick and very efficient because he had them take big boxes or belongings.
John recommends hiring a full-service mover for a last-minute move, especially if it’s a local move, because it wasn’t super expensive. It made it quicker and easier to move huge items that would’ve been hard for him to move on his own, while he was able to do the achievable things on his own. He does advise that you be prepared in terms of packing stuff up and having it organized. John shared that he did that pretty well, which made it fast for the movers to take things out of his old apartment.
FAQs About Last-Minute Moves
What day is the cheapest to hire movers?
Weekdays are typically the cheapest days to hire movers, especially Monday through Wednesday. Demand is lower during the week, which often leads to better availability and more competitive rates.
How can you handle a last-minute move?
To handle a last-minute move efficiently, book movers immediately, gather supplies quickly from local stores, and pack room by room using fast methods, such as using garbage bags for soft items. Declutter as you go and ask for help from friends, family, or professional packers to speed things up.
What do most movers charge per hour?
Most movers charge between $50 and $150 per hour for a local move, depending on factors like location, crew size, and services needed. Rates increase for last-minute requests, larger teams, or additional services like packing.
What is the slowest month for moving companies?
The slowest months for moving companies are typically January and February, as fewer people move during the winter. Scheduling a move during this time can result in lower prices and greater flexibility.
How We Evaluated Movers for Last-Minute Moves
To review moving companies, our team analyzed websites, spoke to customer service representatives, requested numerous quotes, and surveyed 1,000 moving customers.
Our Rating System
To rank moving providers, we created a rating system based on six factors that reflect the overall quality and reliability of each company. Here’s what we looked at:
- Item protection (20%): All movers are required to offer two insurance options, but many offer additional options to maximize the protection of your belongings. We scored companies offering three or more options the highest. We also awarded more points to movers offering additional protections such as antique and specialty services, custom crating, and GPS tracking.
- Service offerings (19%): Top providers offer comprehensive moving services, including local and long-distance moves, packing/unpacking, and custom options tailored to specific needs. Poor providers offer limited or restrictive services. The more services a company offered, the higher we scored it.
- Customer service (18%): Companies with high BBB ratings and customer response rates received more points. We also awarded more points to movers who offered easy access to moving calculators, checklists, and contact information on their websites.
- Value (18%): We gathered five quotes from each mover to create an average price for a two-bedroom move between 500 and 800 miles. The lower the price, the higher we rated the company. We also awarded more points to providers that offered binding estimates rather than ballpark quotes, as well as those that offered more financial flexibility through portable storage container moves.
- Reputation (14%): We analyzed a company’s overall industry reputation. We checked each provider’s licensing status and awarded more points to those who operated as carriers—meaning they perform the work themselves—since that yields a more streamlined user experience. We also rewarded providers with transparent background-checking processes, and we compared their inspection rates to the average Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) fail rate.
- Scheduling (11%): The best movers are easy to work with and flexible and accommodate tight schedules, while less reliable companies may overpromise and underdeliver. We gave more points to companies that offered at least two contact options, had a mobile app for tracking, and offered virtual surveys for quotes for added convenience.
