Key Factors That Affect Your Moving Cost

The more you understand the factors like timing, dates, and volume that change the moving quote, the more you can play with the factors to actually save your hard-earned money.

When planning your move, many big factors influence the overall cost you see in that binding quote. Understanding that can help you budget more effectively and potentially save lots of money.

Here are the main factors that affect costs:

1. Distance of the Move

• Local Moves: Typically charged by the hour. Costs depend on the number of movers and hours worked. The more laborers needed due to big furniture pieces or weird entrances will up your costs.
• Long-Distance Moves: Generally charged based on weight and volume, distance traveled, and additional services you choose. The farther the distance, the higher the cost.

2. Size and Weight of the Load

• Volume: More items mean more space in the truck is needed, which increases the cost. They will choose the truck to send out based on the volume of items and the bigger the truck, the higher the cost. 
• Weight: Heavier items require more effort and may cost more to transport. The heavier the items the more laborers are usually needed. 

3. Timing

• Peak Season: Moving during the summer or around major holidays is more expensive due to high demand. Most families want to move during the summer to start off the school year right which will up the costs. 
• Monthly Timing: The first or 30th of every month is a common time that people finish contracts and want to move. These days will always cost you more.
• Off-Peak Seasons: Moving in winter or mid-month will be cheaper, with more availability and lower rates or discounts can be applied.

4. Type of Moving Services

• Full-Service Moving: Includes packing and unpacking, loading and unloading at your new place. This is more expensive but offers convenience and is a great option if you have kids at home or if you are doing a commercial relocation.
• DIY Moving: Renting a truck and handling the move yourself can save money but requires more effort and time. This usually means relying on friends and family and can be a burden.
• Partial Services: Some companies offer a mix of the two, such as just packing or loading/unloading, which can be fit to your needs and budget. Don’t play with their packages too much as item-by-item services can be more expensive than a package.

5. Access

• Access to Home: Difficult access, like narrow streets or alleys, lack of parking for the truck, small elevators, or stairs, can increase the cost significantly as the movers will need more time for the move.
• Elevators and Stairs: If your apartment or building doesn’t have an elevator or has a lot of stairs, movers charge extra. Make this clear when you ask for quotes. On iMoving you can input your info just once and all the movers will understand your needs and access issues. 

6. Fragile Items

• Piano, Artwork, Sports Items: Items that require special handling or awkwardly shaped equipment will incur additional charges. Tie that longboard to your car roof.
• Fragile Items: Extra care for fragile or valuable items will increase costs. If they are small, throw them in your car and avoid the charges and the worries. You also will avoid the worries during your personal drive to your new home about if your items are ok.
• Garden: Moving your garden items on your own can save valuable time and keep your plants in better condition. Consider taking those flowers in your car ahead of time or making two trips if possible. 

7. Packing Materials

• Supplies: Costs for boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other materials are excluded from quotes. Some companies provide these, while others charge extra. Go to your local stores and ask for extra boxes to save and improve your environment by recycling. 
• Professional Packing: Hiring movers to pack your belongings is an additional large expense but in many cases very worth it.

8. Insurance and Coverage

• Basic Coverage: Included but offers limited protection and high down payments in case of damage. 
• Full Coverage: Costs more but provides full protection for your things during the move. This is highly recommended. Make sure to check the downpayment expected in case of damage.

9. Additional Items To Add

• Storage: If you need temporary storage due to moving dates not matching up or taking a trip, this will add to your moving expenses. Make sure to factor this in.
• Cleaning: Professional cleaning services for your old or new home can also impact the total cost. This can be booked directly or with your movers. 

10. Other Hidden Fees

• Base Rates: Different companies have varying rates and fee plans. Make sure you read through the binding quote and ask any questions or clarifications needed.
• Service Fees: Additional fees for services like moving large items, long carries, or disassembly/assembly of furniture should be made clear in the quote.

11. Preparation and Organization

• Pre-Move Preparation: Being organized and having everything packed in advance in boxes can reduce the time movers spend, lowering your costs.
• Last-Minute Changes: Changes or delays on the moving day mean additional charges.

• Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from different moving companies on iMoving to see what makes the most sense for your move. 
• Downsize: Reduce the number of items to lower weight and volume. Donate, trash, or eliminate to save big.
• Plan Ahead: Booking your movers in advance can help reduce costs, especially during peak seasons.
• DIY It: Consider packing yourself or renting a truck if you’re up for the challenge.

By considering the main factors that play into moving costs and planning accordingly, you can better manage your moving budget and make sure you have a smoother transition to your new home.

Save big by adjusting small factors. Plan ahead and downsize to save! iMoving is here to move you to your new adventure.