Find Reliable Movers in Missoula — Free Quotes

A local Missoula move typically costs $300-$700 for a studio or 1-bedroom and $700-$1,500 for a 2-bedroom. Three-bedroom homes run $1,200-$2,500, and larger homes can exceed $4,000. Most Missoula movers charge around $128/hour for a 2-person crew. Labor-only help (loading and unloading your rental truck) averages about $85/hour per mover. Prices increase 10-20% during August peak season.

Avoid late August if possible — that is peak season due to University of Montana move-in, with the highest prices and limited availability. September through November and March through May offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable pricing. Winter moves (December through February) can save 10-20% but add complexity from snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours in the Rattlesnake and South Hills neighborhoods.

During peak season (August/September), book 2-4 weeks ahead minimum. Many Missoula movers fill their August schedules by mid-July due to the University of Montana student surge. For off-peak months, 1-2 weeks notice is usually sufficient. For long-distance moves originating from Missoula, book 4-6 weeks ahead regardless of season.

Most Missoula movers include the first flight of stairs in their base rate. Additional flights or challenging access — like South Hills steep driveways or Rattlesnake narrow streets — may add $25-$75 per flight or an hourly time premium. Always disclose access challenges when requesting a quote to avoid day-of surprises.

Verify business registration with the Montana Secretary of State and ask for a certificate of insurance. For larger companies, check their USDOT number at FMCSA.gov. Get a written estimate — not just a verbal quote. Check Google reviews for patterns in feedback. Montana eliminated PSC oversight of household movers in 2023, making independent verification of credentials more important than ever.

Yes, most Missoula movers operate year-round, but winter moves require extra preparation. Walkways and driveways need salting, floors need protection from snow and mud, and moves typically take 10-20% longer due to icy conditions. Many movers carry floor runners and door protectors for winter jobs. The upside: scheduling is easier and some movers offer off-season discounts from November through March.

Yes, labor-only service is one of the most popular options in Missoula — especially with UM students and budget-conscious movers. You rent the truck from U-Haul, Penske, or Budget (all have Missoula locations), and professional movers handle the heavy lifting. Labor-only rates average about $85/hour per mover, making a 2-person, 3-hour job around $500.

UM Housing restricts move-in and move-out to 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM, and parking for moving trucks is limited around campus. Many UM-area apartments have no elevators and narrow staircases. Consider labor-only service with a smaller truck for University District moves. Book early for late August move-in — this is the single busiest moving weekend in Missoula.

Reputable movers carry cargo insurance to cover damage during your move. Before booking, confirm the mover's cargo coverage limits and ask about their claims process. Document everything with photos before and during the move. Since Montana has limited mover regulation after the 2023 PSC changes, choosing an insured, well-reviewed company is your best protection.

Yes, our network includes companies that handle long-distance and interstate moves from Missoula. Long-distance moves from Missoula average about $2,362. Interstate movers must have a USDOT number — verify at FMCSA.gov. Get at least 3 written estimates for any long-distance move, and consider binding estimates to lock in pricing.