Last minute movers near you

You may be able to book movers on the same day of your move. However, some professional movers may limit last-minute availability and charge higher rates for urgent moves. If you have time, get a few cost estimates to help ensure you’re paying a lower (yet fair) price. 

Also, don’t skip your research. Always do your due diligence to verify that your mover has a license, insurance, and good reviews.

When looking for a professional last-minute mover, make sure you complete the following steps: 

• Verify their license and insurance: Moving companies should have business licenses, register their trucks with the Department of Transportation, hire drivers with commercial drivers' licenses and maintain liability insurance. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research. Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FCSMA) and your state’s movers association to see if your mover is authorized. 

• Get several estimates: The quotes should specify how much time the move is expected to take, any surcharges for fragile or extra-heavy items and whether packing is included.

• Read their reviews: It's a good sign if people say the movers were timely, careful, worked efficiently, had a positive attitude and charged a reasonable price.

• Ask important questions: For example, ask how they will protect furniture and fragile items, if they will assist with packing or unpacking boxes, and how much notice is needed before the move.

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page. 

Some may work on weekends (including Sundays), holidays and at night, but their availability typically depends on a few factors:

• Weekend availability: Movers typically have busy schedules on weekends, so book ASAP to grab a Saturday or Sunday spot.

• Holiday schedules: Moving companies operating on holidays may charge you more on those days than during off-peak times.

• Nighttime moving: Some professional movers offer evening or overnight moving services to accommodate busy schedules.

Keep in mind that, last-minute movers may accept short-notice bookings, but these urgent services may come with a surcharge.

If you hire a last-minute mover to transport your belongings today, follow these tips for a smooth move:

• Ask friends, family or neighbors to help you pack. It’s best to be as packed up and ready as possible, but you can ask your move if they offer packing services and materials.

• Pack smart. For example, pack an essentials bag with toiletries, important documents, devices and chargers to keep with you through the move. Also, pack the most important items first, in case you need to leave anything behind. 

• Use what you have. Pack soft, lightweight items in garbage bags. Use suitcases, laundry baskets, dresser drawers and reusable shopping bags for the rest.

• Give your movers all important details. For a stress-free move, make sure your movers know where they can park their trucks, if parking permits are needed, what elevator to use (if applicable) and how much stuff you have.

The cheapest days to hire a moving company tend to be weekdays, especially Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. If your busy schedule allows, find out if you can save money by scheduling your last-minute move on a weekday instead of the weekend.

Yes, many moving companies offer hourly rates or flat rates for small jobs like unloading a moving truck or transporting one or two items across town. You can look for last-minute movers in your area that offer labor-only, small move or single-item services.

Before you hire a moving company by the hour, ask:

• Is there a minimum time requirement? Some movers require a two- or three-hour minimum. 

• Is a flat rate or hourly rate better for your move? Flat rates allow you to approve the exact cost before the job starts. With hourly rates, you risk underestimating how long the move will take.   

• Can pros move specific items like pianos or hot tubs? Some movers may not be able to accommodate special items like pianos or hot tubs in a short timeframe as these pieces are heavier and more susceptible to damage.