Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting. Unforeseen costs can quickly turn a seemingly manageable expense into a major financial burden. Are you planning your first move and feeling overwhelmed by the financial unknowns? This article is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to get accurate moving quotes and avoid overspending.
According to Steinway Moving and Storage, the average American moves 11.7 times in their life. That sounds like a lot but consider your own life. Did you move away for college? Have you ever taken a new job in a new city? Did you upsize or downsize your home, even in the same town? Americans tend to find new places to live when their needs change.
Most of the moving that Americans do takes place during early adulthood. Between the ages of 18 and 45, the average American will move five or six times. Once you reach the age of 45, you’re likely to only move two or three more times. Read More
By reading this article get accurate quotes and avoid overspending, you can gain valuable insights into the true cost of your relocation. We’ll also explore strategies to get accurate quotes from reputable movers, ensuring you’re making informed decisions throughout the moving process.
The hidden costs of moving
According to Forbes and the research of the best moving companies, the average local move costs about $2,200 for a three-bedroom home. If you’re moving long distance, you can expect to pay an average of $5,500.
Most moving companies will give you an estimate based on the size of your home and the distance of the move but understand that you’ll pay between $25 and $135 per mover per hour, and even moving the smallest apartment around the corner requires at least two movers.
Planning a move can be overwhelming, especially during the initial stages when you’re bombarded with calls from movers and feeling stressed about making the right choice. In this high-pressure environment, it’s easy to overlook crucial details that can significantly impact your moving costs.
Here at the USMPO, we recommend taking a proactive approach. Before contacting moving companies, take some time to understand your moving expenses. This starts with creating a detailed inventory of everything you plan to move, room by room. Don’t just jot down the basics; pay special attention to those bulky, heavy items or pieces of special furniture. Make a note of anything that might require disassembly or specialized packing. Having a clear picture of your belongings allows you to get more accurate quotes from movers and avoid hidden costs down the line. Think of it as creating a roadmap for your move, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience.
Many forget about items mounted on walls like mirrors, pictures, and shelves. Patio furniture, rugs, ceiling fans, and even outdoor sports equipment are often overlooked. The confusion arises when consumers include these items in some quotes but not others. This inconsistency creates discrepancies and makes it difficult to compare quotes accurately. Movers often ask for the total cubic footage of your belongings for a rough estimate. However, if your inventory isn’t clearly defined, a quote based solely on cubic footage could miss crucial details and lead to underestimation (and potentially higher costs) on moving day.Here’s the key takeaway: Don’t skimp on the details! A comprehensive inventory, including everything you plan to move, ensures all quotes are based on the same information. This transparency allows for a more accurate comparison and eliminates the risk of unpleasant surprises later.
Avoid Overspending
Planning a move can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting. Many people feel completely lost, unsure of where to start or how much to expect. The good news is, we can help you navigate the process and get accurate quotes and avoid overspending. While professional moving isn’t cheap, it’s a full service that requires a dedicated team of professionals. This includes drivers, movers, packers, customer service representatives, dispatchers, and a back-office team managing logistics for multiple moves simultaneously. Each plays a crucial role in ensuring your belongings arrive safely and efficiently.
Here are some key factors that impact your moving costs:
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- Home Size: The number of rooms significantly influences the cost. Be mindful of every accumulated item; people often underestimate the sheer volume of belongings they possess.
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- Home Contents: This goes hand-in-hand with home size. Creating a detailed inventory helps avoid underestimating the amount of stuff you need to move.
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- Distance: The greater the distance, the higher the cost. This includes both the travel distance and the travel time for the movers.
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- Insurance: Moving insurance protects your belongings in case of unforeseen damage. The level of coverage you choose will impact the overall cost.
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- Accessibility: Factors like stairs, long walks to the door, or narrow doorways that require furniture disassembly can lead to additional fees.
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- Moving Add-Ons: Packing materials like felt pads, stretch wrap, and specialty boxes come at an extra cost.
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- Moving Date: Peak moving seasons, typically summer months, often see increased prices due to high demand.
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- Storage and Rentals: While some companies offer free storage for a limited time, long-term storage fees are calculated per cubic foot.
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- Tipping (Optional): While tipping is optional, it’s a way to show appreciation for hard-working movers who take extra care of your belongings and treat your home with respect.
By understanding these factors and creating a comprehensive inventory, you can become your own estimator. This allows you to compare quotes more effectively and choose the mover that best fits your needs and budget without overspending.
Getting Accurate Quotes
Securing accurate moving quotes is crucial for making informed decisions. Here’s how to navigate the process with confidence:
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- Understand Your Needs: Start by clearly defining your moving requirements. Factor in the size of your move, desired services (packing, unpacking, storage), and preferred moving date. A clear understanding of your needs allows you to receive quotes tailored to your specific situation.
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- Do Your Research: Research potential movers thoroughly. Avoid marketing companies or brokers who simply connect you with movers. Look for reputable moving companies with a proven track record of customer satisfaction. Resources like the US Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) website and online review platforms can be valuable tools in your research.
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- Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Aim for at least three estimates from reputable movers. Resist the urge to submit your information on multiple online quote platforms. These platforms often sell your information to numerous companies, leading to a barrage of calls and an overwhelming selection process.
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- Compare Carefully: Once you have several quotes, avoid simply comparing bottom-line prices. Carefully evaluate the details of each quote, including services offered, insurance options, payment terms, and any additional fees. The cheapest quote may not always be the best option.
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- Verify Credentials: Before making a final decision, confirm the mover’s credentials. Check for a valid USDOT number issued by the FMCSA and ensure the company is licensed and insured in your state.
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- Read the Fine Print: Don’t underestimate the importance of reading the fine print. Understand the mover’s liability coverage, cancellation policies, and dispute resolution process before signing any contracts.
The image you see shows the typical space available on a moving truck. Moving companies often calculate costs based on the cubic footage (volume) of your belongings multiplied by a standard rate per cubic foot.
In simpler terms, the more space your belongings take up on the truck, the higher your moving cost will be.
