Relocating from one place to another can be a daunting task. Packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking are all time-consuming and exhausting activities that can significantly add to the stress of moving. This is where hiring a moving service becomes invaluable, providing practical solutions to make your move more manageable.
This article delves into the costs of hiring a moving service and what considerations you should consider to ensure a smooth and cost-effective relocation.
Local vs. Long-Distance Moving Costs
Moving companies’ costs vary depending on whether you relocate long distance or locally.
Moving Costs in Your Local Area
Planning your local move and considering all the costs involved is important. Professional moving companies usually charge an hourly rate or flat fee that ranges from $25 to $50 per hour for each mover, plus travel fees based on mileage and fuel consumption. In California, moving firms are required to charge you twice as much for the drive time.
While hourly rates seem expensive, they will save you money over time. Movers will be responsible for all of your possessions, and they can ensure that it is transported efficiently and safely. This lessens the possibility of harm or loss.
Be sure to include any extra costs when planning your budget for moving, such as packing or travel costs. You can find the best moving company for your budget and needs by comparing quotes from different companies and evaluating their reputation.
Local Moving Price Depends on:
- Size of the move: If you are moving out of a large house, with lots of things, then it will cost more.
- Travel/Truck fee: A fee is added to the standard price. Travel fees are often based on distance traveled. The higher the fee, the further you travel.
- Parking: Moving companies must transport items further if parking is far from the building, resulting in a long carry fee.
- Stairs fee: If there is no elevator, movers will have to move items by stairs, resulting in a stairs fee.
- Additional services included: Additional services include custom crating and handling special items like pianos, sculptures, or paintings.
- Peak season: Moving during peak season is more expensive. The demand for movers is high from June to August.
- Peak days: Weekends are peak days for moving. Because of this, weekends tend to be more expensive.
- Peak dates: Moving during peak dates is more expensive because leases start and end at the beginning and end each month.
The price for local moves in a radius of 150 miles starts at $450. However, the final cost depends on the size of the move and the additional services included. The total cost of hourly moves depends on the number and type of hours and any additional charges. Moving during the weekend of June-August, at the start or end of each month, is the most expensive.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Long-Distance Moves
The cost of long-distance moving is influenced by distance and the volume of goods transported.
- Origin and Destination: What state is your origin and destination? How many people move similarly?
- Mileage: As you move further, your moving costs increase due to the increased fuel consumption and wear on your truck.
- Total weight/volume: Heavy items require additional resources and effort from the movers. This will increase their fees.
- Packing Costs: You will be charged extra for packing services if you hire a professional mover.
- Date flexibility: Choosing a moving date that falls during high-demand seasons may affect the price.
- Deadlines: You will pay a lot more if you want your items delivered quickly.
Relocating to the same location is usually more cost-effective than moving to another area, as travel and labor costs are lower. By moving during a less-busy time of year, you can save money. Let’s look at the advantages of moving then and a few tips to avoid peak season rates.
Save on Peak Season Prices
Think of relocating in the off-peak season, like winter, or in the early hours of the week. The peak season prices are higher in the late spring and summer due to an increased demand for moving services. You can save hundreds by moving when it is less busy.
The Benefits of Moving Off-Season
- Costs are lower: Moving companies charge less during the off-season because there is less service demand.
- Better availability: Booking outside peak times will give you a better chance to get the moving date and time you want.
- Discounts: Professional moving companies might offer discounts or special promotions during slow months to attract clients.
How to Avoid Peak Season Rates
- Plan ahead: Research local moving companies in advance. This will give you ample time to compare prices and find the best offer.
- Be flexible with dates: Avoid weekends and holidays when planning your move, as these times are usually more expensive for movers.
- Sign your lease during off-peak months: If you sign a lease between September and April, the lease will also end in the off-peak season. You will have to move during off-peak months if you must. Rent can be paid month-to-month if your lease expires between June and August.
- Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs: A detailed breakdown of the costs includes additional fees such as storage or packing materials.
Taking advantage of lower rates during off-peak seasons can make your transition more affordable. It is vital to get accurate estimates from reputable movers before deciding. You can find the best moving company for your budget by researching and planning.
Obtaining Accurate Estimates
When determining how much it will cost to hire professionals for your move, you should obtain three quotes from moving companies that have several years of experience. By comparing prices, you can be sure to obtain the greatest deal for your particular relocation.
Importance of Multiple Quotes
This will help you to understand the moving service market in your locality.
Compare the moving companies’ services, including hourly rates, travel costs, and additional services, like storage or packing.
It is easier to spot potential red flags and inconsistencies between providers, which may indicate an unreliable company.
Evaluation of Reputation and Experience
It’s important to compare prices and assess each potential mover’s reputation and expertise. Here are some tips to help you:
- Check Online Reviews: Search for customer reviews on sites like Yelp and Google Reviews. It can provide valuable insight into clients’ past experiences with each company.
- Ask for references: Contact previous customers that have moved similarly (e.g., local vs. interstate). You can then ask them directly about their satisfaction.
- Check the License Information: They must have a USDOT Number.
Additional Services Provided by Movers
Professional moving companies provide additional services to make your move easier and less stressful. Depending on your budget and needs, professional movers offer extra services that may be well worth it.
Cleaning Service Fees
Cleaning a house thoroughly is often required to prepare it for the next tenants or protect your security deposit if you rent. Professional movers may offer cleaning services. The added benefit of this service is that it can save you a lot of time and effort during a busy period.
Storage Unit Prices
Many moving companies offer storage units if you need to store some of your possessions during the move temporarily. Prices vary depending on factors like location, size, and climate control. Ask about storage fees when you receive quotes from moving companies.
Insurance Options
Consider purchasing insurance through the moving company or from a third-party provider. Basic Released Valuation Protection is required by law to cover 30 cents for each item and 60 cents for each item for local moves. However, more comprehensive policies are available for higher premiums.
Reduce Moving Costs
There are many ways to save money when hiring a professional mover. You can reduce the weight and volume by donating, selling, or giving away items. The cost of transportation and storage is reduced.
Downsizing Possessions
It is a good idea to downsize your belongings before moving. This will not only help you save money, but it will also declutter your home. Donate unwanted items to local charities or organize garage sales to remove excess belongings.
Do It Yourself or Ask for Help From Family or Friends
You can reduce costs by packing smaller items. This will save you money on packaging supplies and labor, often charged separately from the service fee. You can also ask friends and family to help you pack. Items not packed by your moving company will not be covered under their insurance. Ask them if they cover it if you purchased third-party insurance.
By following these tips, you can keep moving companies’ costs under control while still benefiting from their expertise in handling larger items like furniture that require disassembly/reassembly upon arrival at your new residence.
There are other options to consider to reduce your moving costs. Portable container rentals may be more cost effective and offer many benefits than traditional moving services.
Rent a Portable Container
Renting portable containers could be the best option to move more efficiently and at a lower cost. These containers allow you to pack and move at your own pace while receiving professional transportation services.
Portable Containers Have Many Advantages
- Flexibility: You can pack and unload your belongings as you please, which allows for better organization and reduces stress when moving.
- Affordability: Renting portable containers is often more affordable than hiring a moving company that offers full service, especially if the mover will be doing some of the work.
- Safety: All items are safely stored in a weather-resistant container, locked up until they reach their destination.
Compare the Cost of Traditional Moving Services
Consider factors like time available, your willingness to do tasks such as packing and unpacking, and the heavy lifting required during the relocation. The decision to rent a portable storage container or use a traditional moving company ultimately depends on your preferences and the circumstances surrounding the move date. Compare the differences between moving companies and PODs.
Check out our comprehensive guide to the best moving container companies for more information on the types and companies that offer rental services.
Renting portable containers is a cost-effective and efficient way to move large households. Moving specialized items like pianos and antiques may require a professional moving company. Let’s look at that option next.
Moving Specialized Items
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of hiring a moving company for specialized items such as pianos versus doing the job yourself. Professional movers are experienced and efficient in packing, disassembling furniture, and transporting heavy or delicate objects. Self-moving can be more cost-effective if you are confident.
Pros and Cons of Hiring Professional Movers for Special Items
Pros:
- Handling large or delicate items with ease;
- Saves time by efficiently disassembling/reassembling furniture;
- The movers are responsible for any damage that occurs during transport;
- Avoid getting injured.
- Saves energy/stress.
Cons:
- Costs could be higher than with self-moving options.
Making a well-informed decision when hiring professional movers to move specialized items is important. Let’s now discuss how to tip your movers for a successful move.
Tipping your Movers
Remember to tip the movers when you hire a professional moving service. Industry-standard recommends tipping 15% on the total bill. This should be distributed equally amongst the crew. This gesture is a way to show appreciation for the hard work they put in during the relocation.
What Should You Tip?
- Average cost: Consider tipping $75 for each mover if your moving costs average $1,000.
- Moving rates: If you pay an hourly rate for your move, your tip should be based on the time they worked. For example, if your mover spent four hours at a rate of $30/hour, your tip would total $120.
- Percentage of the price of your total moving expenses: You can tip each person a percentage of the total cost of moving. For example, if you were to move in four hours, you could pay each person between 10-15%. Consider leaving a 25-30% tip for a move over 12 hours.
- Travel fees: Remember to include any travel fees when calculating your tips. These should be considered as part of the total cost.
Factors That Affect Tips
Other factors can influence the amount you tip. You can consider the following:
- What was the complexity and difficulty of your move? Were there heavy objects like pianos to be moved? They had to negotiate tight spaces and stairs.
- Was the mover punctual? Do they treat your belongings with respect?
Conclusion
It can be expensive to hire a moving company, but the cost is well worth it if you want a stress-free and smooth move. Understanding the rates of local and long-distance moves, off-peak discounts, precise estimates, additional moving services, mover credentials, and portable container rental pricing can help you make an informed decision when choosing a moving company.
We offer transparent pricing and upfront quotes at Long Distance Moving Company of Sarasota Co. Get a free estimate to see how much it will cost to hire movers for your next move.
FAQs
What should the budget for a move be?
The cost of moving depends on many factors, including distance, household size, and any additional services needed. Local moves average $1,250, while long-distance moves cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. It would help if you got multiple estimates and budgets for possible expenses such as packing materials or insurance.
How to calculate the cost of moving?
- Decide whether you’re moving locally or far away;
- Estimate the weight of your possessions (most moving companies charge by this).
- Consider this if you need additional services (such as packing assistance).
- Include the price of insurance and packaging supplies, if requested.
- To receive a precise cost estimate, request estimates from several moving firms.
What is the best day to hire a moving service?
The best days to hire a moving service are usually weekdays in the off-peak period, from mid-September until April. Due to the increased demand, rates are higher on weekends and holidays; try to schedule your move for less-busy times.
