Don’t fret weary apartment hunters! You’ve got questions, and we’ve got answers. Check out our guide to learn how much movers costs and tips for picking proper professionals.
Do your homework
Did you know the average cost of an interstate move is over $10,000? Overpaying or choosing a second-rate moving company can make an already stressful time even worse. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), consumers filed over 9,000 complaints in 2018 about moving companies for shady business practices or missing items.
The BBB recommends researching moving companies on their websites and reading reviews. Aim to receive at least three estimates and get a contract in writing. Make sure the mover offers full-value protection insurance for any lost or damaged items.
The price is right
Moving costs depend on the distance and your belongings weight. Local moves (within 100 miles) typically come with hourly rates while long distance moves usually come with flat fees. According to the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), a local move with no additional costs will range from $550 to $2000. Long-distance moves jump to $2000 to $7500.
Don’t forget to ask the moving company if the quote they provide is binding. A 2020 AMSA survey found only 40.8% of Americans reported their moving estimates were the same as the final prices of the moves.
Ways to save
While a full-service mover removes the hassle and saves time, your bank account could take a serious hit. On top of moving costs, the AMSA estimates packing services run from $30 to $60 per labor-hour for local moves and span $500 to $4000 for long-distance moves.
Save big by carefully planning your move and enlisting your family and friends for help. Using a moving container and marking each box by destination in your new place can help make moving much easier.
