$2,010 - $8,514 is quite a window. The final price of your New Jersey to Florida move depends on a few important factors. Let’s take a look at why you’ll pay more or less on a moving day:
1. Distance
When you’re dealing with long distance movers, the distance is going to be (arguably) the biggest factor behind your price. More miles means more money.
Unfortunately, New Jersey and Florida are about 1,000 miles apart at the closest - but the more distance between Jersey and wherever you’re moving, the better, right?
2. Volume
The distance is just half of the equation. Long-distance movers also charge by volume or the physical size of your move. This is usually by weight or cubic feet.
Your movers will use an in-home estimate or a detailed inventory list, assigning a pound or cubic-foot value to all of your boxes and furniture.
3. Packing and Add-Ons
There are a lot of add-ons and extras to think about, especially if your moving company offers à la carte pricing for custom moving plans.
Will you need packing? Will you need storage? Every move is different, and so is every quote. While these extras may cost more, they’re oftentimes worth every penny. You’ll spend more cash, but save on sanity.
4. Access Fees
Access fees are a catch-all term for any extra obstacles between your front door and the moving truck. If you have a long driveway (usually over 75 feet), or if your movers have to Tetris your stuff into an elevator or up and down extra staircases, you’ll have to pay a little more. It’s a good idea to call your movers and walk them through your floor plan so there aren’t any unpleasant surprises - for them, or for you.
5. Insurance
It’s rare, but sometimes it happens. Stuff can get lost, damaged, or destroyed during your move. Under federal law, moving companies have to offer a bare minimum policy, but that federal minimum is just $0.60 per pound.
That means if you lose a 4-pound Macbook, you’re just getting $2.40 back. If you want full-value compensation, you’ll have to pay extra for full-value coverage.
6. Season/Time of Year
June, July, and August are the busiest months for moving. It’s bleeding into May and September, too. During this season, expect higher prices, and a harder time locking down the dates you’d prefer.
Take our advice, and try to book a move in the middle of the week, the middle of the month, and far away from major vacations or holidays.
7. Expedited Delivery
Moving from New Jersey to Florida will take you from 3 - 21 days, but that 3-day minimum is only if the stars really align. Your movers will make pickups and deliveries on way, so you’ll have to wait a little longer than expected.
If you absolutely must have your stuff as soon as possible, pay for expedited delivery if it’s on the menu. Just remember it comes at a price.