What is the cost of moving? This is the kind of question most people anticipating a move will ask. Unfortunately, it is not a really straightforward question. You expect costs to be pegged on distance and the number of items involved, but there are several other factors to be considered (insurance coverage for valuable possessions, real estate lawyer fees and other costs). The American Moving and Storage Association states that the average cost of moving locally is $2,300 while long distance moving will cost about $4,300.
What is the Cost of Moving?
Below is a look at moving, what it involves, and the costs to be expected. A good idea would be to consider getting estimates from different companies.
Moving Locally
The average cost of moving locally will be affected by the state and city you are in. Hiring a professional mover costs about $25 per hour, and the number of movers required depends on the size of the house. For example, a 2-bedroom apartment may need 3 movers. If they work for a total of 7 hours, it will cost about $525. The stated estimate is for the full service move. Other fees might be included, with one of the main ones being the travel fee. The travel fee is the fuel cost and time taken to get to both destinations as a moving tip to consider.
Cost of Moving to Another State
The cost of moving from one state to the other is affected by three main factors; distance, weight and any additional services requested. The further the destination is, the higher the cost. Weight also affects a move the same way i.e. the more items there are, the heavier the weight of the shipment and therefore the higher the charges. The third factor that affects the cost of moving cross country can be controlled and reduced. Services such as packing and unpacking which add on to the overall cost of moving can be done away with.
Ways to Cut Moving Costs
As stated earlier, different companies come with different costs. Getting estimates from several companies will help when it comes to settling for the most affordable option. Packing and unpacking household items into boxes instead of having the movers do it will cut costs drastically. Another moving tip is scheduling the moving day also helps reduce the total cost. Choose a weekday in the middle of the month during the off-peak season, as its cheaper (the off-peak season is between September and April). The rates go higher during national holidays. Another way to lower the overall moving cost is by reducing the number of items to be moved. Carry only what is necessary. Selling off items that are not needed will not only reduce the cost of moving but also give you some spare change.
Bottom Line
Moving requires a significant financial outlay. Additional charges may arise from other services such as assembling furniture when it comes to moving costs. Special packaging and what season you plan on moving in will also incur costs. Items that require special packaging such as expensive paintings and antiques should be stated when asking for an estimate. So, really, what is the cost of moving? To arrive at the right figures, coordinate closely with your chosen moving company.