Cost Of Moving

Cost Of Moving

Once you begin your research into moving, one of your first questions may be "What will the cost of moving be?"

The cost to move will differ depending on the move size, delivery destination and any additional services or extra fees. It’s important to know that only once you begin communicating with moving companies and receiving quotes, will you be able to calculate realistic average costs. Local and long distance moves are calculated differently. When Creating a Moving Budget you will need to be aware of the variances between the two.

Average Cost For Local Moves

Local moves, also referred to as intrastate, which means within the same state, are commonly charged by the hour. Most companies have a minimum set of hours. Some companies, in addition to an hourly rate, may offer a flat rate. A flat rate is when the moving company will provide an estimated number of hours for the move, this is multiplied by the hourly fee.

Having a representative from the moving company perform an in home estimate and take inventory of your belongings, will provide an accurate hourly rate.

"According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of a local/intrastate household move is $2,300. This price is based on 7,400 pounds using 4 movers at a rate of $200 per hour."

For smaller moves, you will need fewer movers, which will lower the hourly rate.

Additional Costs

• Travel fee – Covers the costs of fuel and time spent getting to your home and back. Expect to be charged the equivalent of 1 hour’s work.
• Packing – Packing services can be provided for a set fee per hour.
• Insurance – Purchasing insurance will add to the cost.
• Extra fees – Flights of stairs, long carry, bulky and heavy items may all increase the final price.

Average Cost For Long Distance Moves

Long distance, or cross-country moves are calculated very differently from local moves. They are based on mileage and weight, or volume. If hiring a professional moving company to transport your belongings, the estimated price will be determined by:

• Distance – The greater the distance of your move, the higher the cost.
• Weight/Volume – The more you take, the higher the weight/volume of your shipment will be, increasing the cost of your move.
• Additional services – Any additional services agreed upon with the moving company, such as, packing, unpacking, special handling of individual items etc. should be included in the estimate.
• Insurance – Purchasing insurance will add to the final price.

"According to the American Moving and Storage Association the average cost for an interstate move with a distance of 1,225 miles is $4,300. This is based on an average weight of 7,400 pounds."

When calculating the average cost to move yourself locally or long distance, there are important factors to take into consideration.

• Truck rental – Depending on the size of your move, renting a truck from a rental company may be required. To obtain average costs, be sure to check what is included in the rental, such as mileage allowance. Some companies offer discounts.
• Moving equipment – You may need to hire help, rent dollies, blankets, furniture pads etc.
• Packing materials – Boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and good quality packing tape. A good set of markers and a knife is also recommended.
• Gas – You will be responsible for filling up the tank for the duration of the journey. Using this online Gas Calculator(https://gasprices.aaa.com/aaa-gas-cost-calculator/) from AAA (American Automobile Association) can assist in obtaining average costs.
• Additional costs – You will need insurance, and depending on distance, food and lodgings may need to be accounted for.

"Average cost for a 1 bedroom apartment moving 1850 miles using a 16’ truck is $1400. This cost does not include hiring professional movers to load and unload the truck".

For do-it-yourself moves, in addition to calculating the average cost for renting a truck and all the costs associated with moving your items, it is advisable to take into consideration any unforeseen charges that may occur along the way, such as unexpected repairs to the truck.

Check out Moving Industry Trends

Once you have averaged your moving costs, it’s a good idea to start organizing and preparing a Moving Timeline.