Written by: Isaac Grant
Date:

Relocating to a new place is pretty much one of the most major decisions you can make in life. And that means that during this process – you have to tread carefully. Trust us – we know just how expensive moving can be; which is why you want to work on hiring a cheap moving company. But finding someone who’s got the quality you need to be coupled with the affordability is not exactly easy; you want to prevent property damage and other costly mistakes by not hiring amateurs. Don’t worry, though – Verified Movers is here to give you some handy advice on that and help you find a moving company for your needs!

Find the Cheapest Offer Among the Trustworthy Movers

First of all, it is important to understand that hiring a cheap moving company, in most cases, doesn’t mean hiring the cheapest moving company you can find. Moving is a complex and demanding business – a business that requires a lot of investing to be conducted properly. That is why it costs so much to be relocated by professional movers. However, it doesn’t mean that you need to be left broke to get the moving service you deserve. It does mean, though, that, to get high-quality service you need to pay a reasonable amount of money.

people counting money
One of the most important things is to hire trustworthy movers.

So your goal should not be to find the cheapest option on the market but to find the cheapest option among the trustworthy moving service providers. Remember, the cheapest offers, those that look too good to be true, in most cases are just that – too good to be true. Therefore, first, you need to put your effort into discovering the best moving companies South Carolina, for example, and then, among those companies, you need to find those that offer the best deals.

Start Early

Starting early is your best strategy when searching for an affordable moving company. The earlier you begin, the more control you have over the process. This head start allows you to explore a wider variety of services, increasing your chances of snagging a great deal. Unlike last-minute bookings, which often come with a premium price tag due to demand, planning ahead opens the door to discounts and negotiable rates. Companies have more flexibility in their schedules and might offer lower prices to fill their calendar ahead of time.

Moreover, this approach gives you ample time to evaluate different companies, read reviews, and make an informed decision without the pressure of a looming deadline. Remember, the moving industry’s prices can fluctuate based on the season. By securing a mover well in advance, you can avoid these peak surcharges and potentially save hundreds. Treating time as your ally in the moving process not only leads to financial savings but also reduces stress, making for a an easier move.

a clock on a pink and blue surface
Start your search for a moving company early to take advantage of the best rates.

Get Multiple Quotes

Getting multiple quotes is a crucial step in finding an affordable moving company. Don’t just go with the first option you find. Aim to get estimates from at least three different services. This approach does more than just give you insight into the average cost; it also empowers you to negotiate better deals. When you compare quotes, you gain a clearer understanding of what constitutes a fair price for the services you need. This knowledge is powerful. It allows you to discuss pricing with confidence, potentially leading to more favorable rates.

This process also helps you spot any excessively low quotes that might indicate poor service quality or hidden fees. By taking the time to gather and compare multiple quotes, you ensure you’re getting a competitive rate without compromising on service quality. This strategy not only saves you money but also provides peace of mind, knowing you’ve made an informed decision in choosing your moving company. So, always remember, collecting several quotes is more than just about finding the lowest price—it’s about ensuring value for your money.

woman reading some tips for hiring a cheap moving company
Compare quotes from at least three different moving services to ensure you get a great deal.

Be Clear About Your Inventory

Being upfront and clear about your inventory allows movers to provide an accurate quote, reducing the risk of unexpected charges on a moving day. Detailing the items you plan to move, including size, quantity, and any special requirements, ensures the company can allocate the right resources and manpower. For example, if you have a grand piano or a heavy safe, the movers will know to prepare with the necessary equipment and possibly more team members, which affects the cost. An accurate inventory list also helps in assessing the total weight and volume of your belongings, which are key factors in determining the final price.

Finding Trustworthy Recommendations

Sure, the circumstances of your relocation will affect your quest for hiring a cheap moving company; not all movers operate the same in all parts of the country. However, there are common denominators that ring true regardless of whether you’re looking for the best cross country moving companies NH, or if you’re moving to Alaska. So, for starters, wherever you are; you’ll need to find some recommendations you can trust. This means mostly listening to people who have experience with moving, but they also have to be people whose judgment you trust.

So, start by asking around your wider family circle. Maybe some of your cousins have moved around recently, and they have movers to recommend. Also, ask your friends and neighbors; these are people you know won’t try to burden you with subpar moving companies for whatever reason. To sum it up – you need to keep your ears open, and actively seek out information on cheap, but trustworthy movers. Furthermore – ask for as many specifics as you can. For example; how much do those movers charge for specific moving services? And how good they are at the things you need them to do?

grandfather and granddaughter looking at smartphone
Utilize your network by asking friends and family for recommendations on budget-friendly movers.

Browse Moving Reviews

Of course, in the age of the Internet – you aren’t limited to offline, analog communication. And that’s true when you’re looking for and hiring a cheap moving company as well. Luckily for you, there are plenty of websites like Yelp where you can read plenty of online reviews of moving companies. Especially if you’re short on personal recommendations by friends and family; this can be an invaluable resource. Learn how to read between the lines of moving reviews. After all, there’s no harm in an additional check-up, right?

So, start reading moving reviews online – as soon as you can, and try to read as many cross country movers reviews South Florida reviewers left on the internet as you can.  Once you find a company with enough positive personal testimonials, you’ll be able to consider them as your potential movers. And of course, there will be a few of those companies that meet your criteria; that’s also where their performance ratings will come in handy when you have to make a choice. Also, last but not least – take a look at the movers’ website. If you find they have a presentable, modern online presence; the chance that you’re working with professionals is much higher.

Make Sure to Avoid Scams When Hiring a Cheap Moving Company

Your idea of hiring a cheap moving company is completely understandable. So wanting to save money while moving is something everyone wants to do. But in your effort to hire affordable movers – always make sure you’re dealing with honest companies. Unfortunately, there are plenty of dishonest movers out there, who are just out to scam you out of your hard-earned money. These people falsely claim that they’re ‘affordable’, by offering ridiculously low prices to lure people in. And then, after they’ve made a deal to do a relocation; they’ll come up with various methods to inflate the expenses and make more money.

woman sitting among boxes
Learn how to avoid moving scams!

Verify Credentials

Verifying a moving company’s credentials is crucial before making your decision. This step ensures they have the necessary licensing and insurance to protect your belongings. A trustworthy company readily provides proof of their credentials upon request. Licensing is vital as it indicates the company meets specific standards set by regulatory bodies. Insurance, on the other hand, offers peace of mind. It covers any potential losses or damages to your possessions during the move.

Checking for these credentials can save you from unnecessary stress and financial loss. It’s a simple yet effective way to filter out unreliable services. Always ask for their license number and insurance details. Then, take a moment to verify this information. You can usually do this through local or national databases available online. This process might seem like an extra step, but it’s essential for a safe and secure move. Remember, a company that hesitates to share this information might not be the best choice. Prioritizing a service with transparent credentials ensures your moving experience is both positive and secure.

three people sitting behind boxes
Confirm that the moving company has the necessary insurance and licensing to protect your belongings.

Be Aware of the Hidden Moving Costs

When it comes to fraudulent moving companies, you do not need to hire one to be scammed. What do we mean by that? Well, there are legal ways in which a properly registered moving company can scam you for money.  And the easiest way to do that is to implement something that is called hidden moving costs. Maybe you heard about this already, maybe you didn’t. The main thing is to be aware that they exist and that they are something that is widely used by legal and properly registered moving companies. Still, it is good to know that, in most cases, hidden moving costs aren’t hidden.

They might be skillfully hidden in plain sight because they know that most people do not read their moving contracts or fine print that is often improperly displayed in the footer.  So be careful when hiring movers and make sure that you read the whole contract before you sign it. Also, ask your movers in person if any costs aren’t properly described to you. The good news is that the best interstate moving companies California, for example, do not use this technique of legal scams. Here are some of the examples of hidden moving costs that moving companies use to legally scam you:

Hidden moving costs examples

  • Disassembling and reassembling furniture –  you might think that it is included in the price but if it’s not clearly stated it is most often not.
  • Packing supplies – if you are hiring a packing service, check whether packing materials are included in the price.
  • Handling bulky items – some moving companies will charge you extra if they have to handle some exceptionally large and heavy objects.
  • Stairs – some movers might charge you if they need to carry your items across several flights of stairs. Check that if your building lacks an elevator.
  • Long carry – if you fail to secure a parking spot near your home and the movers need to carry your items a few hundred feet, for example,  a moving company might try to charge you a long carry fee.

These are, unfortunately just some of the examples of hidden moving costs that you might come across. Make sure that you check with your movers what is included in the price if you want to avoid these unnecessary surprises.

a couple holding boxes
Inform yourself about hidden moving expenses.

Do What You Can to Reduce Expenses

Of course, it’s worth remembering – moving cheaply isn’t just about hiring a cheap moving company. While that is all well and good; there are also other things you can do to make your relocation more affordable.

Avoid peak times

If you’re wondering what is the best time of the year to move, avoiding peak times can lead to significant savings when planning a move. Summer months, along with weekends and the start or end of the month, often see higher moving rates. Demand is high during these periods, and moving companies can charge more. To cut costs, aim for a move during off-peak times. Late fall through early spring typically offers lower rates. Weekdays are also less busy for moving companies, making them a cost-effective choice. Planning your move for mid-month can further reduce costs. This period sees a dip in demand, leading to more negotiable rates.

By choosing a less popular time to move, you not only save money but may also enjoy a more flexible and attentive service from movers. Whether you’re looking for the finest long distance movers Manchester, or moving a few blocks down in Manhattan; good timing is essential to saving money. Taking advantage of off-peak times is a smart move for budget-conscious planners. It requires flexibility but the financial benefits are well worth it. Always check with your chosen moving company about their specific off-peak times and any potential discounts available.

Use affordable packing materials

Saving on packing materials can greatly reduce your moving expenses. Here’s how you can find affordable options without compromising on safety:

  • Look for cardboard boxes: Your local liquor store or market often has sturdy boxes they’re looking to get rid of. These can be perfect for packing your belongings.
  • Reuse newspapers: Old newspapers and documents are great for wrapping and protecting fragile items. Simply crumple them up to provide cushioning during the move.
  • Ask friends and family: Many people have leftover packing supplies from their own moves. Reach out to see if they can spare any materials.
  • Check online marketplaces: Websites and apps dedicated to free or second-hand items often have listings for packing materials.

By opting for second-hand packing materials, you not only save money but also contribute to reducing waste. This approach requires a bit of effort, like visiting local stores or reaching out to your network, but the savings are significant. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly choice that helps minimize the environmental impact of your move. Always make sure the boxes and materials you choose are clean and sturdy enough to protect your possessions.

DIY packing

Many people hire movers to do the packing for them; and sure, this saves you a lot of time and effort and, in some cases helps you to prevent property damage. But on the other hand, if you do it on your own; you’ll save some money. So think about just how much your time is worth to you, and consider just packing everything up by yourself. Also, some of your friends and family may be in the mood to help you out for free. Of course, you need to take this task seriously if you do not want to end up increasing your relocation costs, which will happen if you do not do this properly. So make sure that you do a little bit of research before you start.

family packing for the move
Consider packing your belongings yourself to save on service charges.

Discuss Payment Options

Understanding your payment options when hiring a moving company is crucial for finding the most economical choice. Discounts for cash payments are common since they save the company on credit card transaction fees. It’s beneficial to inquire about any incentives for different payment methods right from the start. Moreover, moving companies often have various pricing structures based on the services you need and your chosen method of payment. For instance, paying the total cost upfront might come with a discount compared to a payment plan spread over several months.

Comparing these options carefully can lead to significant savings. It’s important to ask detailed questions to fully understand all the fees involved and to ensure there are no hidden charges based on your payment method. Some movers might also offer special deals or payment plans that can ease the financial pressure of moving. By taking the time to discuss and compare payment options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and needs, ensuring there are no surprises when it comes to settling your bill.

person using laptop and holding credit card
Verify the payment options available, as some companies may offer discounts for certain methods.

Negotiate

Negotiation can lead to significant savings when hiring a moving company. Many people don’t realize that moving service rates aren’t always set in stone. Especially during quieter times, companies might be more willing to offer a better deal to secure your business. It’s always worth asking for a discount or a more competitive rate. If you’re flexible with your moving date, mention this as it can be an added incentive for the company to lower the price. Also, if you’ve received lower quotes from other companies, don’t hesitate to share this information. It can often prompt a price match or even a better offer.

Remember, the goal of the moving company is to secure clients, and they’re often prepared to negotiate to avoid losing a potential customer to competitors. Politeness and clarity in your request can also go a long way. Expressing your budget constraints and asking for any possible adjustments respectfully can open the door to unexpected savings. Negotiating doesn’t mean compromising on quality; it’s about finding a mutually beneficial agreement that respects your budget and the service’s value.

Choose Partial Services

Choosing partial services can be a smart move if a full-service package exceeds your budget. Many moving companies offer customizable options, allowing you to select only the services you truly need. For instance, you might be comfortable packing your belongings but require assistance with loading, transportation, and unloading or the unpacking process. This approach not only keeps costs down but also gives you control over the packing process, ensuring your items are handled exactly as you prefer.

You can also decide to take care of the dismantling and reassembling of furniture yourself, further reducing expenses. By selectively choosing services, you can effectively manage your moving budget without compromising on the essential help needed on a moving day. Discussing your specific needs with moving companies can reveal various ways to tailor their services to fit your budget. This flexibility makes moving accessible for a wider range of budgets, ensuring you get the necessary support without unnecessary expenditures. Remember, the key is clear communication about what you’re looking for and what you’re willing to manage on your own.

a couple holding big box
Opt for partial moving services if you’re able to manage some tasks yourself, like packing or loading.

Be Prepared on Moving Day

Being prepared on a moving day is very important for an easy and cost-effective process. Make sure all your boxes are packed and clearly labeled before the movers arrive. This step alone can significantly speed up the loading process. It’s also important to ensure there’s easy access to your home. Clear any obstacles that could hinder movers from efficiently moving items out of your house. Similarly, organizing your belongings so that the most accessible items go into the truck last can save time and, therefore, money. Movers work at an hourly rate, so the less time they spend figuring out logistics on the spot, the more you save.

Moreover, having an essentials box ready, with items you’ll need immediately at your new home, prevents unnecessary delays. Remember, efficient use of time on a moving day not only reduces stress but also impacts the final cost of the move. Every minute counts, and being well-prepared ensures that you, and the movers, can work as efficiently as possible. Don’t forget to relax after a long distance relocation, and enjoy your new home!

Hiring a Cheap Moving Company Is Not an Easy Task, So Be Careful!

As you can see, hiring a cheap moving company is possible. However, you need to invest a lot of time and energy into the whole process if you want to be successful. If you don’t know how moving companies operate and how the whole industry works, you won’t be able to distinguish good movers from bad and protect your move properly. You can easily fall into the trap of hiring some cheap but incompetent, or even worse, fraudulent movers that will eventually cost you more than the most expensive movers you negotiated with during the selection process. That is why it is very important to learn about this before you start looking for movers. Now, you will be able to choose the best offer – the one that will leave a significant amount of money in your pocket and provide you with quality service at the same time.