If you’re planning to move in the near future, you must research the ins and outs of the moving process. The cost of relocating is a significant concern for many, so it’s crucial to learn about the major unforeseen moving expenses and how to prevent them. Let’s look at the most important things you should consider when outlining your relocation budget.
Major Unforeseen Expenses of Moving and How to Prevent Them
Providing Your Movers With an Incomplete Moving Inventory Can Lead to Unexpected Expenses
It’s a common scenario that many have faced – you provide movers with information about your inventory, they come up with an estimate for you, and the relocation day comes, but the final cost is different than what you initially agreed upon. How come? Whether your estimate is based on the weight of the items or the volume, it’s easy to underestimate how much stuff you have for transport.
People often add more boxes to their inventory last minute, forgetting to inform the moving company about the changes. When your movers arrive and realize they have more work than anticipated, they must adjust the price. This can easily be avoided if you set up a video call or a visit with your movers beforehand so they can adequately inspect your household inventory and provide you with accurate estimates.
Timing of Your Relocation Can Significantly Affect the Final Cost
You will likely organize the move based on your work, kids, or lease termination date. This is often necessary but leaves you vulnerable to higher costs of long-distance moving services. Think about it – the cost of movers won’t be the same on any given day or in every season.
In general, movers charge more at the end and beginning of a month – this is when most leases end, so the demand for professional services is higher. The prices will also be higher if you pick a weekend instead of a weekday for your move since most people want to relocate during weekends.
Morning time slots are more expensive, as many customers prefer them. Additionally, you must consider the time of year when you relocate – summer is the peak moving season, so relocation services will be pricier during the summer months. Of course, if you reach out to a moving company at the last minute, you should be ready for higher prices – that’s why it’s always best to book movers months in advance.
Be Aware of Fees for Transporting Special Items
You might think some items are the same, but movers will indeed find bulky, awkward-shaped, or weighty items an issue. When you’re curating a moving inventory, this is something to pay attention to – you can’t consider a few boxes and a baby grand piano the same thing. If you have something as grand as a piano or a pool table, inform your movers well before the relocation so they can be prepared and give you a correct estimate for their services.
Fees for Additional Services Usually Aren't a Part of the Initial Quote
Customers can sometimes request additional services on the moving day that aren’t part of the set quote—for example, providing full packing assistance with supplies brought by movers. This can drive up the final price, so you should speak with the moving company before the move and establish what kind of work is included in their initial quote. If you want to pay a fee for added services, it’s better to plan that in advance and outline it in your contract with the relocation company.
Consider the Distance of Shipping
Regarding interstate relocations, the distance your belongings need to travel is one of the main factors affecting the price of moving services. The moving company has to count in the fuel, mileage, and even the tolls. Most companies account for these costs when setting their initial quote, but it’s one thing customers often need to remember to check.
If the move is long-distance, your chosen mover may cooperate with a third-party service provider who may drive up the transportation price. To avoid this unforeseen cost, check your contract with the moving company to see if they work with third-party vendors.
Stairs Can Make a Difference in the Price of a Move
Stairs are a factor that most customers overlook. If the pick-up or drop-off destination is difficult to access, or the movers have to carry heavy items up and down many flights of stairs, you should expect the price of their work to be higher than usual. This cost can be unforeseen if you don’t inform the moving company about the conditions they will have to work in.
Pay Attention to Every Detail in Your Contract With Movers
Unfortunately, many unprofessional moving companies prey on the customer’s lack of knowledge regarding relocation. Understanding unforeseen expenses will help you avoid them. The best advice we can give you is to read the moving contract in detail. Pay attention to the fine print, and feel free to ask questions if you need help understanding something – any reputable company will be more than happy to answer and clear up any misunderstandings.
Whether you need long-distance or local moving services, Apex Moving Systems is your moving company! Our expert team of movers provides quick, efficient relocation assistance without any hidden costs – contact us to get your estimate, and let us organize an easy relocation for you!
