How to Determine Moving Costs

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Moving can be very stressful, as it requires a lot of planning and physical work. People often decide to hire professionals to help lift some of their burdens. Hiring a packing or moving company makes this major life event more expensive. As soon as you know you’re relocating, you need time to prepare. You also need money to pay for the move, even if you don’t hire professionals. Small purchases like buying packing supplies can add up financially and surprise you.

Therefore, it’s important to know what factors determine moving costs. Here are some things to consider so you can budget and plan accordingly.

Moving Distance

How far you’re moving plays a large role when determining moving costs, and there are local and long-distance relocations. Obviously, the further away you move, the more expensive it will be, whether you hire a company or not.

Long-distance moves cost more because you need to pay for fuel and a rental truck, which many charge mileage. You also need to account for the time it will take if you’re paying an hourly rate for any hired help.

The radius to distinguish a local move from a long-distance one is often 50 miles. If your new home is closer, you may not need professional services. If you’re looking into hiring a company, ask the movers about their rates based on distance.

The Size of Your Move

Like miles, the more items you have, the more your moving costs will be. If you don’t hire a company or rent a truck, you’ll likely need to make multiple trips. Transporting belongings for local moves is easier but still costs money for fuel.

According to Plano moving services, most moving companies typically charge based on the weight of the load. A lot of pieces of heavier furniture will increase the cost, and the labor of lifting and carrying larger items is also more intensive.

Another disadvantage of having more things to move is that it takes more time. You need to pack everything up, then set up your belongings in your new home. Also, more packaging materials will raise your moving costs.

What Season Are You Moving?

The season of your move also helps determine costs due to the market demand. Other people relocating during the same time also need to hire professionals or rent a truck. Depending on the season and location, you may have trouble finding assistance.

Spring is the best time to move because there’s less demand and pleasant weather. If you have children in school, this season may not be ideal. However, see if you can make arrangements and plan for the spring instead of waiting.

Moving costs in the winter will be the lowest because fewer people relocate during this time. You’ll have no issues scheduling a rental truck or hiring a professional company. However, the weather can cause problems depending on your old and new home locations.

Movers are the busiest in summer because of school not being in session. However, the hot weather causes fatigue faster. Finding professionals or moving trucks will be more difficult in the summer.

Things start winding down in the fall as families settle in right before school starts. Moving costs won’t be the cheapest but will be less expensive than summer.

The Moving Services You Will Need

Another factor in determining moving costs is the type of services you need. Some people relocate without hiring professionals but need to rent a truck. Self-moves save money because you don’t need to pay a company.

You can also find businesses that offer packing services before moving, or you can do it yourself. If you decide to take the task on without hired help, you’ll save money. However, you’ll need to buy packing supplies that will factor into moving costs.

Some items may require specialty services, like fitness equipment, pianos, or pool tables. You’ll likely need to hire a moving company to transport these belongings safely, and specialty services will be able to get these valuable items to your new home.

Hiring a moving company that offers full services makes your relocation more expensive. However, the reduced mental and physical stress is well worth the investment for many. Professional services significantly ease the anxiety and workload of long-distance moves.

Hire a Quality Moving Company

Knowing the factors that contribute to moving costs can help you plan accordingly. You can lower expenses by selling old belongings, especially oversized things. The process of packing and moving is mentally and physically strenuous. Fewer belongings will reduce costs and stress levels, especially for long-distance relocations. It’s common for many people to rent a moving truck or hire a professional company to make things easier. If you recently sold a property, you’ll likely be able to fit relocation expenses into your budget.

Although you want to save as much money as possible, hiring a quality moving company is worth it. Paying extra to guarantee your belongings make it to your new home safely is a wise investment. Research moving companies and find the best one that meets your needs.

Choosing the cheapest option may not necessarily lead to the best outcome. Hiring movers with a poor reputation can lead to you being scammed in charges. Another possibility is having your belongings damaged or stolen during the relocation. Take your time and select a trusted, high-quality moving company. Look online for customer testimonials and make sure they’re insured.

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