That $600 to $6,000 window is pretty huge, so let’s unpack (heh) what goes into your final price. When you look at your moving quote, you’re bound to see a few of these usual suspects:
1. Distance
The distance of your move is probably the most important factor behind your price. Fortunately, you’re only going from LA to Vegas. It won’t cost you as much as a coast-to-coast relocation, but you’ll still need to keep a close eye on your…
2. Volume
Aside from the distance, the physical size of your move is the next biggest factor behind your price. The more stuff you have to move, the more you’ll end up paying. If you want to save big, downsize as much as possible so you don’t get charged for all those unwanted items.
3. Packing
Packing is a pain. Why not let the pros handle it? Packing services are an additional expense, but it’s an expense you may want to seriously consider.
Since wrapping, boxing, and taping up all your belongings is one of the most time-consuming parts of a move, hiring some help can make your life a lot easier.
4. Furniture Disassembly/Assembly
Some items are just too awkward to fit in a box without some extra work. If you have large pieces of furniture, your movers may have to disassemble them so they can fit in the truck. It’ll cost extra, but your movers will come prepared with the tools and the know-how.
5. Storage
Too much stuff? Not enough space? Sometimes it’s not even an issue of square footage: When you’re dealing with a big move, you may not have enough time to get all your belongings situated in just one day. Storage units provide some much-needed flexibility - and some movers offer 30 days free!
6. Access Fees
Will your movers need to deal with gates, long driveways, multiple flights of stairs, elevators, or anything else that might make their day harder? These obstacles are all included under the umbrella term, “access fees”.
Make sure you communicate with your movers ahead of time so they know what they’re getting into - and so you know how much you’ll be billed.
7. Shuttles
Movers use big semi trucks for long-distance moving. There’s plenty of space in the trailer, but some places don’t allow these trucks to park on their city streets.
To get around this, your movers will have to park the main truck in a staging area on the outskirts, and use a smaller truck to ferry your stuff back and forth.
8. Insurance
It’s rare, but it’s important to think about what’ll happen if anything gets damaged in transit. Moving companies offer a bare minimum $0.60 per pound insurance plan.
This means you’re only getting $2.40 for a 4-pound computer monitor. If you want to be reimbursed the full value of your items, you’ll have to pay extra for full-value coverage.
9. Gratuity
While it isn’t included in your actual quote, we figured we’d include in on this list. Tips are accepted (and expected) in the moving industry.
Don’t cheap out: 15% - 20% is a good amount, to be divided up between your whole moving team.