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 checking Verified Movers and hiring reputable movers for this adventure, it is important to know who you’ll be working with. A trustworthy company will be honest and transparent about its 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 decide that you don’t want to move by yourself, be careful who you are hiring. Always go for honest and reputable moving companies. 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.
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.
Storage costs
A common method many people use when moving is to rent storage units. Sometimes, you might not be able to move all of your possessions at once, or you can’t carry them into your new home immediately. For those reasons, storage units can help you greatly. You can usually find and rent these kinds of units in storage facilities. The fees of renting a unit will vary on the location, size, and time period you will be occupying the space. At first, these costs might seem very affordable, so you won’t be giving them second thoughts. However, over time, these costs can quickly pile up, leading to a pricy hidden moving cost that could have been easily avoided.
First of all, be sure to rent a storage unit of adequate size. Choosing a storage space that is either too big or too small will lead to unnecessary costs. Also, learn how to pack and organize a storage unit. Properly packing and placing your belongings will not only require smaller space, but it can provide extra protection to them as well. And finally, consider donating, selling, and/or recycling whatever you no longer need. Not only will you be saving up on hidden moving costs, but you will also be taking care of the environment. Use shopping and paper bags that you already have, and for items that require packing supplies of higher quality, consider reusing them. If you don’t require protection from temperature, stay away from climate-controlled storage. While they are a lifesaver in some cases, here, they will only increase your moving costs.
Insurance
All moving companies are required, by law, to provide their customers with basic liability coverage. However, in most cases, this is not sufficient for customers’ needs. Whether this moving insurance doesn’t provide adequate coverage for the number of items, or it doesn’t cover the full value of the items, there are many reasons why people need to look for alternatives. And that is where hidden moving costs emerge. Many moving companies will also offer you additional insurance, however, its price may be unfairly inflated. Behind the promising words and safety this insurance provides, you can easily get scammed for a larger price.
So, when it comes to avoiding hidden moving costs disguised as moving insurance, you need to do your homework. Research and learn what to look for in moving insurance. Try to get information from a few different moving companies and compare the price for this service. Or, on the other hand, you can ditch these additional moving insurance from the companies and look for a third-party provider. Sometimes, you can achieve a higher level of safety during your move while not being forced to pay more than necessary.
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.
Accessorial Fees
Another one of the most common hidden moving costs is the accessorial fee. Some moving companies, besides providing basic moving services, can also provide you with specialty moving services. This can include pretty much everything apart from packing, unpacking, disassembling the furniture and etc. Some of the most common are:
- Auto Moving
- Fine Art Moving
- Piano Moving
- Electronics Moving
And similar. Usually, the higher costs of these services are more than justified, as you are moving items of higher value. However, some movers will charge you for these fees even if you haven’t specifically asked for them. That way, they can quickly add up, increasing your overall moving cost by a lot. So, in order to avoid being charged extra for services you didn’t need or want, be sure to thoroughly read your moving contract. Always clarify and mention what services you want and ask whether they are included in the initial quote. Moving cannot be done overnight, so always plan ahead. A good way to avoid being charged for services like this is to pack your own items or disassemble the furniture before the movers come to your address.
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.
Disposal Fees
If you haven’t taken account of all of your belongings and possession, you might be forced to throw some away on your move-out day. This happens all the time, usually when people move to smaller households. However, if you don’t plan everything accordingly, you might be forced to pay for disposal. To some, this service, usually called Junk Disposal Service, is a good thing. However, if you are not counting on it, you might have to pay a few more bucks than usual.
Luckily, you can easily find your way out of this fee. First, plan in advance. Think about all your possessions, and how you handle them. All the items that you no longer need, or can’t move, try to sell or donate. Organize a garage sale or sell it via the Internet. Give some to your friends and family, or donate. That way, you will have fewer of the items you want to move and you won’t have to worry about disposal fees.
Long Carry Fees
Similar to the fees related to elevators and long staircases, you should also keep an eye out for long carry fees. In case the moving van gets parked a bit farther from your address, the movers will have to carry your items for a long while. This is very commonly used as a basis for long carry fees. The best way to avoid this unnecessary fee is to find a suitable parking space as close to your address as possible. Also, be sure to talk with your moving company and clarify any additional fees. That way you will be sure what for and how much you are paying.
Fuel Surcharges
This is another one of the hidden moving costs that are typical for long-distance relocations. Should the movers stop for a gas refill, it is more than possible that they will charge you for it. However, there is an easy way of avoiding this hidden moving cost. Clarify any additional costs with the moving company to prevent this expense, and think about negotiating a flat charge. That way you will get exactly what you pay for.
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 and avoiding moving scams. You know you can always count on 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!