Are you planning a move? Whether you’re staying in town, moving to the side of the country, or relocating to another country, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is about how much your move will cost.
While you don’t want to hand over everything you own to the lowest bidder, you also don’t want to overpay for relocation services. Learn about how moves are priced and how to ensure you get a fair price with no unpleasant surprises.
How Local Moves are Priced
Moving companies price local moves based on how much time it will take to complete the move from point A to point B, plus transportation costs. The moving company’s hourly rate is multiplied by the number of crew members needed for the job, and that total is multiplied by how long the job will take. A fuel fee is typically added as well.
How Long-Distance Moves are Priced
Unlike the cost of local moves based on time, the price of a long distance move is based on weight. The more belongings you have to move, the more it will cost. A moving estimator will inventory your items and use a formula to determine the weight. The weight will be added to the carrier’s tariff rate to get the cost of the move.
Why In-Home Estimates are Needed
Some moving companies are happy to provide a quote over the phone, but that’s a bad idea. Here’s why: if a moving company doesn’t see the items that need to be moved, they can’t give you an accurate estimate.
Also, without an in-person estimate, movers won’t know about special circumstances, such as stairwells, narrow passageways, and elevators, that could add to the cost of the move.
Pricing for Additional Services
In addition to the base price, you can choose to pay for additional services, including packing, storage, vehicle shipping, custom crating, and more. Disposing of boxes and other packing supplies at the end of the move is another service that usually carries an additional fee.
Binding vs Non-Binding Estimates
Some people don’t understand the difference between binding and non-binding estimates—and that lack of knowledge can end up costing thousands of dollars.
A binding estimate is a guarantee in writing that your move will cost $X. This type of estimate protects you from unexpected charges. However, a non-binding estimate allows the moving company to tack on extra costs for unforeseen issues that come up during your relocation.
There is a legal limit to how much money can be added to a non-binding estimate, but to avoid the problem altogether, it’s best to opt for a binding estimate.
Get a Free Moving Estimate from Highly Reviewed Kansas Movers
Covan World-Wide Moving’s residential movers bring years of experience to your local or long-distance move, and we provide free accurate in-home estimates. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a consultation with a relocation specialist.
