April 12, 2023 Posted in Moving Tips
Julie Grace

Originally from The Golden City, Julie has explored the ins and outs of moving and has written all the tips down.

Breaking Down the Cost of Moving – How Much Do Movers Cost

Organizing a relocation can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is knowing the overall price. So, how much do movers cost? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. So, let’s check the factors that can affect pricing and how you can save money on your big move.

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Check out some factors and learn how to estimate moving costs

The cost of hiring movers can vary widely depending on several factors, including the number of belongings being transported, the distance of the relocation, and the time of year. On average, hiring a relocation team for a long-distance relocation can cost upwards of $5,000. It’s important to obtain multiple quotes from reputable relocation companies and consider any additional fees or services that may affect the final cost.

How Much Do Movers Cost – What Are the Factors That Affect the Final Cost

Relocating to a new home can be an exciting but stressful time, and one of the biggest stressors is often the cost of the move. Estimating relocation costs can be a challenging task, as there are many factors that can affect the final price. Let’s check them out so you can make informed decisions about your relocation and budget accordingly.

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Distance of the Move

Distance is one of the most significant factors that can affect how much cross-country movers cost. Typically, the farther you are relocating, the more expensive the move will be. Local moves, which are typically less than 100 miles, are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves, which are over 100 miles, are usually priced based on weight and distance. So, if you want an efficient relocation, it’s best to ask your long-distance moving company for all the details.

Size of the Move

Like the distance, it’s pretty much the same for your belongings. The more belongings you transport, the more time and resources will be required to pack, load, and transport them, which can result in a higher relocation cost.

Relocation companies typically base their pricing on the weight of your belongings or the number of rooms you have. So it’s essential to provide an accurate estimate of your belongings to get an accurate quote. This being said, it’s good to make an inventory list that you could hand to the relocation crew.

Time of Year You Pick When Moving Cross Country

The time of year you choose to move cross country can also significantly impact how much you’ll pay a relocation team. Generally, peak season is from May to September, when many people choose to relocate due to favorable weather, school schedules, and holidays. During this time, relocation companies are in high demand, and prices can be higher due to increased competition for their services.

On the other hand, relocating during the off-season, which is typically from October to April, can often result in lower prices, as there is less demand for movers. However, relocating during the off-season can also mean dealing with inclement weather conditions that may slow down the whole process.

Additional Cross Country Moving Services

An additional cross-country moving service can also impact how much the relocation will cost. These services can include full packing service, insurance, and renting storage. Luckily, Cross Country Moving Company has an amazing offer of one whole month of using our storage unit completely free.

While these services can add to the cost of your relocation, they can also make the process more convenient and less stressful. For example, if you have fragile items, you may want to consider purchasing additional insurance to protect them during transport.

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How much do long distance movers cost? Figure out what services you'll need

How Much Do Professional Movers Cost on Average

When obtaining quotes from relocation companies, it’s essential to ask about any additional fees, such as fuel or packing materials, that may affect the final cost. Additionally, it’s important to research potential moving companies and read reviews to ensure you are getting a fair price for quality service.

How Much Do Movers Cost for a One-Bedroom Apartment?

The cost of a relocation team for a one-bedroom apartment can vary depending on the same factors we mentioned, such as the distance of the relocation. The price is typically based on the number of workers needed, the amount of time required for the relocation, and any additional services required.

For long-distance moves, the cost may be higher due to factors such as fuel costs and travel time. When obtaining quotes from moving companies, be sure to provide an accurate estimate of the size of your relocation and any additional services you require, such as packing or furniture assembly. This will help ensure you receive an accurate quote for the cost of your relocation.

How Much Do Movers Cost for a 2-Bedroom Apartment?

The same rule goes when it comes to the cost of movers for a 2-bedroom apartment, too. However, in both cases, it’s extremely important to work with professionals. That way, you’ll be completely free to ask all the questions regarding the relocation and what costs you can expect in order to prepare your finances accordingly.

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The average cost of movers depends on numerous factors

Should You Hire a Company That Offers Lower Than Average Price of Services

When it comes to hiring a relocation company, it’s important to consider more than just the price of their long-distance moving services. While a lower-than-average price may be attractive, it’s important to ensure that the company is reputable and offers quality service. Hiring a company based solely on price may result in subpar service, damaged belongings, or hidden fees that can increase the overall cost of the relocation.

Before choosing a relocation team, it’s essential to research potential companies, read reviews from past customers, and obtain multiple quotes to ensure you are getting a fair price for quality service. Additionally, you may want to consider factors such as the company’s experience, licensing, and insurance to ensure they are qualified to handle your relocation.

How Can You Avoid Getting Scammed by Lowballing Companies

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the agency responsible for regulating relocation companies in the US, there were over 4,000 complaints filed against relocation companies in 2020. While not all of these complaints necessarily involve moving scams, it is an indication that there are many issues that consumers face when hiring relocation companies.

Getting scammed by lowballing companies is, unfortunately, a common occurrence, but there are several steps you can take to avoid it:

  • Research potential relocation companies – Do your research and read reviews from past customers to ensure the company is reputable and has a good track record.
  • Check for licensing and insuranceMake sure the relocation team is legitimate and insured to protect your belongings during the relocation.
  • Beware of lowball quotes – If a relocation crew offers a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of companies that offer significantly lower prices than other companies.
  • Ask for a written estimate – Make sure you get a written estimate that includes all fees and services. This will help prevent relocation mistakes and hidden fees.
  • Avoid paying a large deposit – Be cautious of companies that require a large deposit upfront. Reputable companies usually don’t require a large deposit, and you should only pay once the relocation is complete.

By following these steps, you can help ensure you choose a reputable company and avoid getting scammed by lowballing companies and movers.

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Take all the precautions when choosing cross-country movers

What Are Some Ways to Save Money on Moving Costs

Relocating to another place can be an expensive endeavor, and it’s natural to want to save money wherever possible. Fortunately, there are several ways to cut costs and reduce the overall cost of your move.

Moving During Off-Peak Seasons

Relocating during winter and off-peak seasons is an effective way to save money on relocation costs. This relocation season typically runs from October to April and can often result in lower prices, as there is less demand for relocation services. In addition to lower prices, moving during the off-season can also mean a more flexible schedule, as relocation crews may have more availability. So, if you are looking for the cheapest ways to relocate, simply consider planning your move for October and April.

Reducing the Number of Items Being Moved

Another effective way to save money on relocation costs is to reduce the number of items being moved. The less you have to transport, the less it will cost in terms of time, labor, and transportation. Before you relocate, take the time to go through your belongings and do some downsizing. Consider selling or donating items you no longer need or use, as this can help lighten your load.

Doing Some or All of the Packing Yourself

Considering the average cost of a moving company, you might want to consider doing some or all of the packing yourself. Organize packing and save money on packing services and ensure that your belongings are packed to your specifications. Be sure to use proper packing materials to protect your items during the relocation, such as sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing tape.

Hiring Professional Cross Country Moving Company Will Be Worth the Money

Having a trustworthy long-distance relocation company by your side can be a worthwhile investment, as it can provide several benefits that can make your relocation less stressful and more efficient. But how much does a mover cost? Whatever the price may be, remember that professionals will ensure that your belongings are safely and efficiently transported to your new home.

If you’re planning a cross-country move, let Cross Country Moving Company make it a stress-free experience. Contact us today to receive a free quote and learn more about our professional services. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to ensure your relocation is efficient, safe, and hassle-free.

FAQ About How Much Do Movers Cost

How Much Do Movers Typically Cost?

Relocating can be a costly process, and it’s important to understand how much it typically costs to hire long-distance movers to help with the relocation. The cost of hiring movers can vary depending on several factors, including the distance of the relocation, the size of the home, and the specific services required.

Do Moving Companies Charge by the Hour or by the Job?

Cross-country moving companies may charge either by the hour or by the job. Hourly rates are more common for local moves, while flat rates are often used for long-distance moves. Flat rates are usually based on the weight of the items being moved and the distance they are being transported. Hourly rates can vary depending on the number of workers required, the time of day, and the day of the week.

Are There Any Hidden Costs Associated With Hiring Movers?

There may be hidden costs associated with hiring a relocation crew, such as fees for packing supplies, fuel surcharges, and insurance. It’s important to ask the moving company about all potential fees upfront and read the fine print of any contracts or agreements.

Is It More Expensive to Move During Peak Season?

Relocating during peak season, typically during the summer months, can be more expensive due to the higher demand for relocation services. In addition, relocating during weekends or holidays may also result in higher costs.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Move?

Several factors can affect the cost of relocation, including the size of the home, the distance, the number of items being moved, and the level of service required. Additional services, such as packing and unpacking, car shipping, and storage, can also increase the cost of relocation.

How Can I Get an Accurate Estimate for My Move?

To get an accurate estimate for a relocation, it’s important to provide the chosen company with as much information as possible, including the size of the home, the number of rooms, and the specific services required. It’s also a good idea to get quotes from multiple relocation companies to compare costs.

Are There Any Ways to Save Money on Moving Costs?

There are several ways to save money on relocation costs, including downsizing belongings, packing items yourself, and scheduling the relocation during off-peak times. Some relocation companies may also offer discounts for certain types of moves or for customers who book their services in advance.

What Additional Services Do Movers Typically Offer?

Additional services that a relocation team may offer include full packing, a storage unit, and auto transport. Reliable cross-country movers may also offer insurance premiums for your valuable belongings in case of damage during transportation.

Do I Need to Tip My Movers? If So, How Much?

Tipping movers is not mandatory, but it is a common practice. The amount to tip can vary, but a general guideline is to tip between 5-20% of the total cost of the relocation, depending on the level of service provided.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Hiring a Moving Company That Charges Significantly Less Than Others?

Hiring a relocation company that charges significantly less than others may come with risks, such as inexperienced or unlicensed movers, inadequate insurance coverage, or hidden fees. It’s important to research and read reviews before choosing any relocation team to ensure they are reputable and trustworthy.

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