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Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but the process of packing up and transporting furniture can often be an exhausting task. Whether you’re relocating to a new city or just moving to a different neighborhood, hiring professional furniture movers can make the process much smoother. However, one of the most common questions people have is, “How much do furniture movers cost?” In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of furniture moving services and provide you with valuable insights to help you budget for your upcoming move.
Factors Influencing Furniture Moving Costs
1) Distance of the Move
Local Moves:
Local moves are generally less expensive than long-distance moves. Movers often charge by the hour for local moves, and the time it takes to transport your furniture from one location to another will impact the overall cost.
Long Distance Moves:
For moves across state lines or to a different region, movers typically charge based on the weight of your belongings and the distance traveled. Because of this, you’ll be asked to give a comprehensive inventory of the items you need moved.
2) Volume and Weight of Furniture
The amount and weight of the furniture being moved directly affect the cost, making it essential to carefully assess the dimensions and mass of your belongings. As the quantity and weight increase, so does the demand for manpower and specialized equipment, inevitably impacting the overall moving expenses. Heavy items like an upright piano or gun safe will increase prices whereas mostly boxes and items under 100 pounds will decrease the overall cost.
3) Type of Furniture
Fragile or bulky items may require extra care and handling, leading to increased costs. Specialized packing materials and techniques may be needed for delicate furniture pieces or large items.
His Workmanship previously talks about how to maneuver heavy furniture with ease, making it a smooth and injury-free experience here in this blog: A Guide to Safely Maneuver Heavy Furniture at Home. You can also watch the video below to learn how to move heavy furniture.
4) Insurance Coverage
Movers typically offer different levels of insurance coverage for your belongings. The type and amount of coverage you choose will impact the cost. It’s important to understand the insurance options available and choose the one that provides adequate protection for your items. If you have a low appetite for risk and really care about the safety of your items, then it’s recommended to purchase the most expensive type of insurance. If most of your belongings are cheap, then you might as well save on costs by foregoing the insurance option. In most cases, you won’t be required to purchase insurance protection.
5) Packing Services
Professional packing services provided by moving companies can be a valuable investment, particularly for those with busy schedules or individuals who prefer to entrust the meticulous task of packing to experienced professionals. By choosing this option, you not only alleviate the stress associated with the time-consuming process of packing but also benefit from the assurance that your belongings will be handled with the utmost care and expertise. One of the primary advantages of opting for professional packing is the proficiency that comes with the experience of skilled packers. These experts are well-versed in the art of packing and are equipped with the knowledge to handle a wide range of items, from fragile glassware to bulky furniture.
Average Cost Estimates
Local Moves
Local moves are often charged on an hourly basis. The average hourly rate for two movers and a truck can range from $80 to $120. Keep in mind that additional services such as packing, unpacking, and assembling furniture may require extra charges. Local in-town moves can cost around $2,000 for the truck and muscle. A full service move that includes loading and unloading will run you anywhere from $4,000 to $5,000.
Long-Distance Moves
Long-distance moves are usually priced based on the weight of your belongings and the distance traveled. On average, you can expect to pay around $0.50 to $1.00 per pound of goods, with additional charges for distance. For example, a fully furnished 5 bedroom 5 bathroom house with 5,000 sq ft can cost up to a hundred times that amount, so you’d be looking at a $10,000 price tag.
Additional Services
Packing services can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 per hour per packer. Sometimes you will get a discounted rate if you add more than 2 movers. Furniture assembly and disassembly may incur an extra fee usually around $25 to $50 per piece. If you have many items that require this type of service, don’t be afraid to ask the moving company about getting a discounted rate since you’re a high value customer.
Tips for Saving Money on Furniture Moving Services
1) Plan Ahead
Booking your movers well in advance can often result in lower rates, as last-minute bookings usually come with additional charges. So once you know the closing date on your new home or when your apartment lease ends, you should immediately start shopping for movers. The advance notice could save you as much as 25% on your move. Whereas same day moves might cost you up to 50% more than if you had given the movers 1-2 weeks of notice. Watch the video below to hear about 20 moving hacks to save time and money.
2) Purge Unnecessary Items
Reduce the weight and volume of your belongings by decluttering before the move. This not only saves money but also makes the moving process more efficient. Do you own an old torn up couch? Do you have a broker lawn mower that doesn’t start? Any excess clutter in the home that accumulated as a result of hoarding? If so, then consider getting a dumpster to trash these items. You can always purchase brand new ones after you move into your home residence.
3) Flexible Moving Dates
If possible, opt for moving during the off-peak season or on weekdays when rates are generally lower. Saturdays and Sundays can cost you up to 20% more. The first few days of the month and the last few days of the month also tend to cost more. Choosing these times not only helps you save on costs but also ensures smoother logistics, as moving companies may have more availability and fewer scheduling conflicts. This strategic timing allows for a more relaxed and organized moving experience.
4) Compare Multiple Quotes
Get quotes from several moving companies to compare prices and services. Make sure to inquire about any additional fees that may apply. Come up with a list of questions to ask each moving company so that you can have more information to facilitate your assessment and solidify your decision. But make sure that once you pull the trigger and express your intent to hire a specific moving service, then don’t keep shopping around for a better price.
5) DIY Options
If you’re comfortable with it, consider moving smaller items or boxes yourself to save on labor costs. Moving these lighter items to the garage will less the amount of time the professional movers will need to work. Then you can hire movers only for the heavier or bulkier furniture. This could reduce your overall bill by up to 50%.
It is essential to grasp the elements that impact the costs associated with moving furniture, as this understanding is pivotal for efficient budgeting throughout the relocation journey. By taking into account factors such as distance, volume, the nature of furniture, and any supplementary services needed, you can make well-informed choices to facilitate a seamless and economical move. Be sure to gather quotes from various moving companies, plan ahead, and leverage money-saving strategies to enhance the positivity of your furniture moving experience.