We all know how important it is to stay within a set budget when moving house. The entire process can get pretty expensive if you’re not careful. On top of that, there are hidden moving costs that you have to look out for when arranging the services of a moving company. While we always recommend hiring a reputable moving company for this adventure, it is important to know who you’ll be working with. A trustworthy company will be honest and transparent about their costs. Many will give you a moving estimate, but that price might not be the final one you have to pay. Therefore, we have compiled a list of these unexpected costs which you should keep in mind. Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend additional money if they don’t need to!
Know your moving company in order to avoid hidden moving costs
The best option, of course, would be to avoid these costs completely. The very first step in this process is to know exactly who you are working with. As we previously mentioned, not every mover will have hidden moving costs. Others may use your lack of knowledge and preparedness to trick you into paying more. So, if you decided that you don’t want to move by yourself, be careful who you are hiring. Similarly to that, be aware of how the movers are charging you. For instance, the movers you pay by the hour may prolong their working day and take a longer time. On the other hand, movers who have a set price for their job might be sloppy because they are hurrying to get to their next client. In any case, being smart and paying attention to details really pays off in the end.
Pay close attention to how your movers will calculate your moving estimate. Not everyone will be honest about it!
The most common hidden moving costs
While you may think that there aren’t many services that movers can charge extra for, there definitely are. From some that are obvious, to others that aren’t so clear, there are many ways in which bad moving companies scam their clients. Stay informed and alert so you don’t become one of the people who fall for hidden moving costs. Here are the most common ones that can appear.
Packing costs
Unless you specifically pay for the packing services of your moving company, this shouldn’t appear on your final invoice. Of course, you can always opt to pack yourself and save some cash that way. And if you do need additional help, by all means, get the pros to assist you with it. However, if you do, check if they will charge for packing materials and cardboard boxes beforehand. Some may even try to assure you that you need “special protection” for items that don’t really need it. If you do have items that require special care and packing, double-check with movers how they will handle that.
Bulky and heavy items
Handling furniture and other bulky items requires more attention and care. Movers will be more than happy to take care of that for you. After all, they know all the tricks when it comes to successfully loading large items onto their moving truck. They’ve done it hundreds of times and they’ve got the equipment for it. However, if you have a lot of these belongings, they might try to charge extra for all the heavy lifting they have to do. Be clear with them before signing the contract and state how much furniture or machines you’ve got in the house. Moving your business? Even more, reasons to double-check how the company will charge for all the furniture and/or heavy machinery they have to relocate for you!
Stairs, elevators and tiny streets
When your movers aren’t able to complete their job due to certain inconveniences, they have to figure out a way around it. Sometimes, they will also charge extra for it. For instance, if you’re moving to an apartment building without an elevator, they will most likely charge a fee because they will have to carry everything using stairs. On the other hand, when there is an elevator, make sure it is working on your moving day. Also, it may get quite crowded and if it is small, some of the furniture may end up having to go up the stairs. Likewise, if the street is too narrow for a moving truck to park in, that could also be one of the hidden moving costs on the invoice.
If your building doesn’t have an elevator, or it is out of order, the movers are likely to charge a fee for using the stairs.
Assembling and disassembling furniture
In case your movers need to disassemble your furniture before they load it onto a truck, they might charge extra for it. You may not even be aware that many of it will have to be carried in pieces, and the company will add charges to your bill if you ask them to assemble it again in your new place. If you don’t have much need for it a few days prior to moving, then try and take them apart yourself to save up a bit of cash! Just remember to keep the instructions and all the screws, because you will have to assemble them again when you arrive at the new house.
Much of your furniture needs to be disassembled before relocating. Such as this dresser and bookshelves – the contents go in moving boxes and the shelves, drawers, and doors are taken apart.
Hidden moving costs are easy to avoid if you pay attention
No matter if it’s your first or tenth time moving, you have to be careful. Paying close attention to your moving contract is crucial. As well as choosing the right moving company. You know you can always contact us to give you moving advice and recommend the best movers for your needs. With professional help and complete honesty, any relocation can be a breeze!