4 Hidden Moving Costs You Need to Know

You made it through the mortgage process and closing day. Now it’s time the big move! You’ve started your homework to research the right moving company, but before making your final selection, make sure you are aware of all the hidden moving costs and additional charges that might pop up based on the circumstances of your move. Here are 4 common extra fees that you need to keep in mind!

Packing and Unpacking

Packing is not only the most time-consuming task in the relocation process but also one of the most crucial. If you don’t wrap and pack your cherished possessions properly, you risk damaging them during the move. Don’t have enough time or the right packing materials to do the job yourself? Find a moving company that will pack for you. They can complete the packing process quickly and efficiently while also being liable for any damage. Unpacking services can also be tacked on to your bill and are usually calculated on an hourly basis. If you want the movers to also collect and dispose of the packing materials, you will also need to pay a disposal fee.

Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly

A lot of furniture pieces will require disassembly in order to be easily and properly moved. If you aren’t properly equipped or sure how to disassemble something, don’t risk ruining it while trying to separate the detachable parts. Your movers will have the required equipment and knowledge to get the job done. Once you reach your destination, the movers can also reassemble the furniture. This will obviously incur a fee, but it lessens the risk of potential damage and allows you to jump in elsewhere to start unpacking.

Handling Special Items

If you anticipate moving appliances like washer/dryers, fridges, etc., you will likely have to hire an appliance expert to unplug and reconnect any electrical appliances since most moving companies will not do this. Additionally, movers charge an extra fee if they need to handle extremely heavy and bulky items that require special handling and treatment such as pianos and pool tables.

Carrying and Climbing

Most moving companies charge an additional long-carry fee if they are restricted to parking more than 50 to 75 feet from your new home’s entrance. This charge is usually based on the distance the movers need to carry your shipment from the moving truck to the residence. If possible, try to reserve a parking space directly in front of your new property for the delivery’s duration to avoid this additional charge. Another hidden fee that moving companies can hit you with is a flight charge for taking your household items up the stairs. The cost is calculated either per step or per flight of stairs.

Additional services and rates vary from one moving company to the next. Research all your options carefully, and make sure all the services you request and the charges your movers require are explicitly clear in the paperwork before the big move!