Let’s face it. Moving can be a difficult, time-consuming and expensive affair. However, by taking some time to learn the various ways moving companies charge, you can alleviate some of the stress normally involved and actually make some better informed decisions about your move. There are several angles to consider when determining how much to expect to pay for a moving service.
Typical Local Move Charges:
A local move is generally considered to be anything less than 40 miles in distance. However, always ask the movers ahead of time their own definition of a local move. If it is a short distance, you are likely to pay an hourly rate for the time taken for the job. That hourly rate can vary from $45 all the way up to $120 per hour. This will likely depend on your area, how many movers will be needed, and how many hours they are expected to take.
There may also be extra charges. If the movers provide things like boxes and packing supplies, you will be expected to pay for these items. When movers actually spend time packing your items, this will cost you more. Even if there are no excess fees, it will certainly lengthen the amount of time on the job. Of course, you might be able to get a binding moving estimate, which will guarantee a ceiling to your final cost.
Long Distance Moves:
Anything longer than about 40 miles could be considered a long distance move. It really doesn’t matter if you are going out of state, or remaining within your state. Generally, these types of moves will charge based on distance and the weight of your items. Incidentally, any moving company involved in interstate moves will be regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and can be easily investigated.
Using the weight and distance method can be a little tricky to predict final costs for long distance moves. However, anything within about a 500 mile range should run about $0.50 per pound. This is also unlikely to include any packing services, so be prepared to do all that yourself. Many times, the movers will prepare a weight estimate based on your inventory list. Just as an example, a two bedroom house should have around 5,500 pounds worth of items. For a 1,000 mile move with this much weight, you are probably going to spend around $4,000 for the move.
Extras Increase Moving Cost:
Generally speaking, the lower the fee, the more work you will have to do. Be ready to pack your own items and have all of your own materials like boxes and packing or shipping supplies. Another extra charge might be a ‘light and bulky’ fee if you have many things like blankets, comforters, etc… These extra charges may show up as an added hourly rate, or even a per box charge.
Bottom Line:
All of these information should have you much better prepared to estimate the costs of your move. Of course, it is still very helpful to get some specific quotes. You can receive a no obligation, FREE online moving quote by contacting Atlanta Peach Movers today.
