A full-service move, especially a long-distance one, can be expensive. Hiring a professional moving company E Home Mover will help you avoid unexpected moving costs. Keep your bottom line low with these four tips:
1. Estimate Properly.
Different moving companies offer different estimates, which can affect your final TheMoveMe costs. Binding-not-to-exceed estimates save the most money, but there are three other types:
Based on item weight and services, non-binding estimates estimate the total moving cost. It does not hold the mover to final costs, which may be higher (or lower) than the estimate.
Binding estimates guarantee a fixed cost within a timeframe (usually 30 days). Even if the shipment weighs less than estimated, you must pay the full cost. Last-minute additions cost more.
Binding-not-to-exceed estimates are similar to binding estimates, but they’re the best because you don’t have to pay more if the weight is higher than estimated. If your shipment is underweight, you may pay less than your estimate because these estimates are based on the final weight.
2. Check The Services You Need.
Ensure these additional services are included in your estimate if you need them. Otherwise, you may be surprised if the final bill includes the following:
Extra delivery/pickup stops
Packing, unpacking, and precise loading
Packing supplies
Expenses (for laborers to travel to and from location)
Fuel costs
Expenses (for trucks, dollies, ratchet straps, etc.)
Long-haul charges
Disconnecting fees (for gas and water lines)
Elevator/stair carry fees
Large item fees
Expense
Moving insurance
Cancellation fee
Furniture assembly/disassembly
Guaranteed delivery
Storage charges
Hoisting fees
Deposit (if the movers have to wait on you)
Expenses (also called an environmental fees)
3. Accurately Estimate
Avoid underquoting.
Underestimating your service needs to save money will cost you in the long run. Always overestimate and get quotes from multiple movers.
Make sure your estimate includes all your moving items.
This means you should get an estimate after you’ve sold everything you don’t want to move and bought everything you do—otherwise, your price could change. If you pay for packing, this is crucial!
Verify your quote.
Before your moving crew arrives, read your estimate. Missing items or services can result in large last-minute charges.
Understand your estimate.
Ask your mover in advance about anything you need help understanding. Unknowingly signing up can be costly.
4. Other Moving Cost Savings
Distance, home size, location, and timing all affect moving costs. If you want to cut costs, here are some other ways:
Location: If the place you’re moving from or to is hard to reach, expect higher movers’ fees. Choose a home with easy moving truck access if you’re still planning your move. It may save money.
Timing: “Peak Season” (spring and summer) is more expensive than “Off Season” (fall and winter), and costs can vary depending on whether your move is emergency/last minute, at the beginning or end of the month, or on a weekday or weekend. Because few people move in winter, you’ll save more.
Distance: Most transportation costs are based on miles traveled, so moving locally or long distance affects cost. Staying local can save you a lot if your destination is flexible.
Size: Moving a two-bedroom apartment costs less than a five-bedroom family home. Because of the number of things you’ll own to fill it, not the size of your home. If you’re budget-conscious, sell, donate, or dump before moving.
