It sounds easy to hire a home moving company until you start fielding uncomparable quotes, vague timelines and reviews that are either glowing or terrifying. Moving is already stressful. Find a mover that comes on time, makes sure your stuff is safe, communicates well, and doesn’t try to sneak in surprise fees.
This guide explains the various types of movers, what affects cost, what to ask before you make a reservation, and the steps that can help make moving day go more smoothly.
What a House Moving Business Usually Supplies
Home moving companies offer a menu of services. Opting for the basic loading and transport or a more full-service experience.
Printing services, loading, transport of goods, unloading, and packing are also commonly offered. Some movers also provide specialty handling of pianos, antiques, large TVs, safes, and fragile artwork.
The main difference among companies is the extent to which they are transparent about what’s included, and how scrupulous they are with your stuff.
Difference Between Local Move and Long Distance Move
Distances impact pricing and logistics.
Hourly rates apply to local moves. Your price depends on how many crew members there are, how long the move takes and add-ons like packing or handling heavy items.
Long-distance moving companies typically charge by the weight of your items, volume, distance or a combination of those factors. They can also include a delivery window instead of a specific time.”
Make sure if you’re comparing quotes, you are comparing the same type of move and the same service level.
Full Service vs Labor Only
Labor-only moving can be a good option if you’re looking to keep costs down. That means you rent the truck and moving crew does loading and unloading.
Full-service moving generally covers the truck, transport, crew, and standard equipment. It’s also more convenient and often less sweaty, especially if you’d rather not drive an oversized track or stage a multi-step move.
Packing services can be tacked on to either model. They are more expensive but save time and can help minimize damage, if done the right way.
What Influences the Price of a Home Move
There are a few things that often impact pricing.
How much home and stuff you have is the primary driver. Increasing time and labor are stairs, long carry distances, elevators, and tight parking.
Heavy or fragile items can be costly, since they require special care. The time of year matters too. And summer and weekends are generally pricier, because demand is higher.
Packing supplies, packing labor, storage and specialty services are additional costs.
To get a closer quote, provide specific details about stairs, elevator access, parking and any bulky items.
The Right Way to Compare Moving Quotes
A low estimate doesn’t always equal a good deal. Make sure your quote from any good home moving company is detailed about what it includes.
Inquire whether the quote is binding or non-binding. Inquire about any fees that might be tacked on moving day, such as long carries, stairs, fuel surcharges, or travel time. Inquire what would occur if the move takes longer than anticipated.
On long-distance moves, ask how they calculate weight or volume and whether the company uses its own trucks or brokers the move to another carrier.
Also, check what is covered by insurance and what’s needed to file a claim if something gets damaged.
Red Flags to Watch For
While some red flags typically indicate a bad experience, be wary if a company doesn’t want to give a written estimate, requests a large up-front deposit or is vague about fees. Another red flag: a mover that can’t clearly describe their claims process.
If reviews repeatedly mention late arrivals, bait-and-switch prices or poor communication, take that seriously.
Also, watch out for companies that are middlemen. If you prefer a direct mover, make sure that they are the ones who will be doing the move and not brokering it out.
Questions to Consider Before You Book
These questions typically allow you to identify a credible mover in short order.
- Do you have licensing and insurance for my type of move
- Do you offer a quote in writing, and if so what kind of quote?
- What charges could be tacked on at moving day.
- How do you safeguard delicate and furniture items?
- Who will be my main point of contact on move day?
- So what if the truck is late?
- What is your claims process if anything were to be damaged?
- Do you hire any part of the move-out?
If you’re moving long-distance, also inquire about delivery windows and how updates are provided when your shipment is in transit.
How to Get Ready So the Move Goes Seamlessly
A few preparatory steps ease moving-day chaos significantly.
Declutter before you pack. It saves money and helps alleviate chaos. Mark boxes by room and also “priority,” so must-have items are easy to identify.
Leave a “do not pack” area for documents, medications, chargers, and valuables. If you’re packing it yourself, use sturdy boxes, tape well, and don’t overdo it.
Photograph expensive items before you move. It’s an easy step that pays off if you ever need to file a claim.
Confirm parking and building rules. If you need elevator reservations or loading zone permits, get that settled beforehand.
Practical Takeaways
So, what makes the best cheap home moving company? By price alone, compare quotes by work scope and stay alert for vague estimates and surprise fee habits. Come right out and ask about insurance, add-on fees, and whether the company will be doing the moving itself.
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be a disaster. Moving homes can be a simple and predictable process with the right home moving company and some planning. Concentrate on transparency, professionalism and reviews that reference consistency, and you will greatly improve your chances of a smooth move day.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
