Moving can be an exciting but stressful time, mainly when calculating the cost of the move. If you’re planning a local move, you may wonder how much it will cost to hire a professional packer and mover company. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the factors that affect the cost of a local move and provide tips on saving money on your next move.
Factors that Affect the Cost of a Local Move
- Distance: The distance between your old and new home is one of the most significant factors that impact the cost of a local move. Most local moving companies charge by the hour; the total hours it takes to move your goods will depend on how far apart the two locations are.
- Size of the Move: The size of your move is another important factor that affects the cost. The more items you have to move, the longer it will take to pack, load, and unload them, which means you’ll pay more labor costs.
- Accessibility: The accessibility of your old and new homes can also impact the cost of the move. Live in a high-rise building with no elevator or a house with a long driveway. It may take longer for the movers to load and unload your belongings, increasing the cost.
- Time of Year: The time of year can also affect the cost of a local move. Summer is the busiest time for moving companies, so that prices may be higher during this season. Moving during the off-season, such as fall or winter, can help you save money.
- Additional Services: If you need additional services, such as packing or unpacking, furniture assembly, or storage, these will add to the cost of the move. Make sure to discuss any additional services you need with the moving company before you sign a contract.
Cost Breakdown of a Local Move
The cost of a local move varies depending on several factors, but most local moving companies charge by the hour. The average hourly rate for a local move is around $100-$150 per hour, but this can vary depending on the location and the size of the move. Some moving companies also charge a flat rate based on the distance and the size of the move.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved in a local move:
- Hourly Rate: As mentioned, most local movers charge by the hour, and the hourly rate includes the cost of labor, equipment, and transportation. The hourly rate typically ranges from $100-$150 per hour. Most moving companies require a minimum number of hours, usually two or three.
- Packing Materials: If you choose to have the moving company pack your belongings, they will charge you for packing materials, such as boxes, tape, and paper. The cost of packing materials can vary depending on the move size. However, expect to pay around $50-$100 for a small- medium-sized move.
- Packing Services: If you choose to have the moving company pack your belongings, you’ll also be charged for labor. The cost of packing services can range from $25-$50 per hour, depending on the number of packers needed and the job’s complexity.
- Travel Fee: Some moving companies charge a travel fee to cover getting to and from your old and new homes. This fee is typically based on the distance between the two locations and ranges from $25 to $50.
- Insurance: Most moving companies offer basic insurance coverage, but if you have valuable items that need extra protection, consider purchasing additional insurance. The insurance cost varies depending on the value of your goods. Still, it expects to pay around $50-$100 for basic coverage and more for additional coverage.
- Storage: If you need to store your belongings for a short or long period, you’ll also be charged for the cost of storage. The storage cost can vary depending on the size of the unit and the length of time you need it but expect to pay around $100-$200 per month for a small to the medium-sized unit.
Tips for Saving Money on a Local Move
- Declutter: The more items you have to move, the more expensive it will be. Get rid of anything you don’t need or want. Donate, recycle, or sell items in good condition and toss out anything broken or unusable.
- Pack Yourself: If you have the time and energy, consider packing your belongings yourself. This can save you money on packing services and packing materials. You can reuse boxes and packing materials from previous moves or ask friends and family for boxes they no longer need.
- Be Flexible: Be flexible with the moving date. Moving during a weekday or off-season can save you money on the cost of the move. You can also negotiate a better rate if you can be flexible with your move date.
- Get Quotes: Don’t settle for the first moving company you find. Get quotes from several local moving companies and compare their rates and services. Ask about hidden fees or charges, such as fuel surcharges or stairs fees.
- Negotiate: Feel free to negotiate with the moving company. If you’ve researched and have quotes from other companies, use this information to negotiate a better rate. Some moving companies may be willing to match or beat a competitor’s price.
The cost of a local move can vary depending on several factors, including distance, size of the move, accessibility, time of year, and additional services. Most local moving companies charge by the hour, and the average hourly rate is around $100-$150 per hour. To save money on your next move, declutter your belongings, pack yourself, be flexible with your move date, get quotes from several moving companies, and negotiate a better rate. By following these tips, you can keep the cost of your local move within your budget.