If you’ve decided you want to move to a new location, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed about all of the logistics. If you don’t properly plan for your move, the process can quickly become stressful.
One of the most critical aspects of your move is finances and how much the move will cost. Residential moving services can vary significantly in price depending on many factors, but one thing is for sure; you’ll never want to cut corners as the movers you hire are handling your most prized possessions! We’ve put together more context about factors that will impact the price of your move.
Local moving company prices (updated 2023)
Long-distance moving company prices (updated 2023)
Distance
One of the main driving factors in how much it costs to hire movers is the distance you are moving. If you are moving within the same city, the cost will be significantly less than if you were moving to another state or even across the country. The greater the distance between the starting and ending point, the more money you can expect to pay.
Why is this the case? Professional moving companies need the right licensing and insurance for interstate moves. Longer moves will also take the most amount of company time and resources. By hiring a professional team, you can reduce the risk of damage to your items in addition to lowering your stress.
Additional Costs for Hiring Movers for Local Relocation
Even with local moving services, there is a great amount of variation in cost. Local moves are typically based on an hourly rate in addition to the number of team members that are required to execute the move. If you need additional movers to help pack your boxes, for example, you can expect to pay more.
There are some exceptions to this approach such as a flat-rate move, but generally speaking, most moving companies charge hourly. These hourly rates include the use of the team, the use of the truck, any related equipment such as a ramp, and miscellaneous materials. Keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in the cost of fuel as well.
Size of the Move
How much movers charge is also dependent on the size of the move. If you have a large volume and weight of household goods, you can expect to pay more for your move. One-bedroom moves are cheaper than full-house moves. As you can imagine, the more things that you have, the more people will be required to complete the move. More boxes and items also mean more trunk space that's required.
It's always recommended that homeowners go through their items before the move and purge things that no longer suit them. You don't need to get rid of everything but consider how useful each item is and the last time that you reached to use it.
The Difficulty of the Move
The difficulty level of the move will also play a role in how much it costs. Logistical factors often play a part in how difficult a move is. Consider whether or not there is a convenient parking spot for the moving truck outside of your current home or apartment.
If you don't have an elevator in your building but you live on the fourth floor, this is another factor that could make the move more difficult for your moving team. Narrow hallways and doors are considered factors that are difficult as well. The more stressful the move may be, the more you could end up paying. It's always ideal to do as much as possible beforehand to make the move seamless.
Amount of Services Required
Not all moving companies will provide all moving-related services for you. If you are only using a professional moving company for a small portion of the move, you won't pay as much as you would for a full-service move. Examples of services include packing and unpacking, loading the truck, providing a warehouse for storage, and insurance.
It's no surprise that full-service moving companies will charge more than those that provide specific services. If you're hoping to save some money, you can always attempt to complete as much as possible before the movers arrive.
Time Needed for Moving
How much movers cost is directly related to the amount of time that you need their help. Moving companies charge based on how in-demand their services are at a particular time. Moves that take place during the summer, around holidays, and during the first or last days of the month will typically be more expensive as these are the most common times to move.
To save a bit of money and to move when it is less hectic, consider planning your move for the middle of the week if you can.
LONG-DISTANCE MOVING: HIDDEN FEES THAT MOVING COMPANIES CHARGE
It's common for long-distance movers to charge based on the weight and volume of the goods that need to be transported in addition to the number of miles to the final address. Long-distance moves typically mean that there are more than 100 miles between addresses or crosses state lines.
Be aware that long-distance movers may have hidden fees such as moving items up and downstairs, any necessary shuttle services that are provided, or carrying items a long distance. In the case that the moving company needs to hire a specialty rigging company to help move oversized items, the mover will pay the price. Customers are also responsible for paying for parking charges that the moving truck incurs.
When hiring movers, you'll want to consider the below factors when determining your moving costs. Not every moving company looks at the same factors, so it's important to do your due diligence to save money when hiring professional movers:
- Specialty items: Many long-distance moving companies as well as local moving companies charge for specific skills and materials. For example, maybe you need moving and packing services for an item such as a piano, a hot tub, a valuable piece of artwork, or a clock. This will cost extra toward your total cost.
- Long carry fees: Long-distance moves might require your items over a long distance, and this will usually result in higher moving costs.
- Stair carry fees: Many local movers and long-distance movers must go up and down the stairs to properly pack the truck. Going up and down the stairs can increase your average total cost.
- Elevator fees: In the case that you live in a high-rise apartment building, you can factor an elevator fee into your average cost.
- Unpacking services: Additional services such as unpacking your belongings and sorting the moving boxes can result in higher average costs.
- Shuttle fee: Your moving expenses will be higher if the moving truck isn't able to park outside of your new location. This is especially true if your new home is located in a more remote area.
- Fuel costs: Some long-distance moving costs are dependent on the price of gas and fuel costs between locations.
- Expedited delivery services: If you are moving cross country and you need a full-service moving company to execute your move as quickly as possible, you'll likely pay a premium.
- Tipping: Although tipping isn't factored into your moving cost calculator, it's appreciated! If the moving process goes exceedingly well, you can always tip your movers with cash.
ALLIANCE MOVING & STORAGE IS READY TO HELP!
Movers may not be how you want to spend your money, but we can speak from experience when we say that it's worth the money! At Alliance Moving & Storage, our local Chicago movers are happy to assist you with a range of moving services. Whether you're moving down the street or to a different state, our team has the experience and equipment ready to make your move seamless. To learn more about our professional moving services or to get a free quote, please reach out to us today!
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