There’s nothing easy about planning an upcoming move. It can be even more frustrating when you don’t know what costs to expect. Different moving companies have different rates, and your total moving cost estimates could vary by thousands of dollars. So, choose wisely.
A Guide To Local And Long-Distance Options
There are two types of moves. Here are the costs to expect when hiring professional movers for a long-distance or local move.
Long-Distance Moves
It doesn’t matter where you’re moving. Learning more about the type of move will help you understand the cost better. Take a look below.
Local Moves
Most moving companies think of local moves as happening within the same city or a close city in the same state. These moves usually last 50 miles or less. Most local movers charge hourly rather than the flat fees common to interstate moves. Your total local moving cost will reflect the time and labor needed.
Essential Factors For A Budget-Conscious Move
Do you want to know what factors affect your moving cost? Here are the key cost factors that will determine the final price of your move.
Move Distance
A cross-country move spanning hundreds or thousands of miles requires more time and resources than a local move, which is reflected in the total cost. Also, you should expect to pay more if your plan is to move overseas due to the added logistical challenges, such as your mover contracting air and ocean freight for your household goods.
Home Size
The size of your home is a major cost factor. Movers will charge considerably more to move a three-bedroom than a studio apartment, as more belongings result in more labor and equipment. Some moving companies charge more to move things up or down stairs.
Timing
Scheduling moving services during peak season—from April through September—will result in higher rates. Most moving companies cite summer as the busiest time of year, and you can save substantially when scheduling during the off-seasons of fall, winter, and spring. You may also pay cheaper rates on a weekday as most people move on weekends.
Moving Insurance and Contents Coverage
Interstate movers provide free limited liability content coverage and offer supplementary full-value protection for a fee. You must purchase a moving insurance policy from a third-party agency for more comprehensive coverage.
Packing Services
Moving companies operate with full-service or self-service business models. Full-service movers offer professional packing services for an additional fee and assist with many other stuff, such as loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings. Movers also provide furniture disassembly and reassembly. Self-service movers typically cost less but require packing and loading your belongings unassisted, often using portable shipping containers.
Beyond The Basics – Extra Services
Many movers offer specialty services to accommodate your moving needs. These services incur additional costs and often involve moving large items such as pianos, pool tables, and vehicles. Do you want to know what the other optional services are? Take a look.
- Appliance installation
- Cleaning services
- Crating for fragile items
- Junk removal
- Fine artwork or antiques
- Storage
Ready To Roll? Get Your Free Moving Estimate Today!
Why worry about unexpected costs when moving? At Let’s Start Moving, we provide clear and competitive pricing to help you budget your move effectively. Our team offers professional services personalized to your needs, from packing to specialty item handling. Contact us today for a quick quote, and let us take the stress out of long-distance moving!
