Extra Charges Your Long Distance Moving Company May Not Disclose

You can find the potential for extra charges being mentioned on your moving estimate. However, it may be in fine print or not clearly explained.

When you contact movers to haul your household goods to another state, the moving company is responsible for providing an estimate. Unfortunately, unethical carriers and brokers aren't always transparent about how they calculate costs—or how your estimated charges might change. This can lead to a stressful relocation experience, especially if you're relocating on a tight budget.

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Movers Hesitant On Explaining Potential Added Fees.

Many people choose full-service movers over renting a truck because it's convenient—and sometimes cost-effective. However, low-cost, long-distance movers are known for failing to disclose extra fees in their initial estimate. As a result, the media and consumers label sudden cost changes as hidden fees even if the contract clearly states that their costs are just estimates.

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Why People Feel Scammed With Extra Charges.

Many relocation brands, especially small moving companies, do not inform customers of potential extra charges and how to prepare for or avoid them. The primary reason is that they fear the lead may get scared away and choose another option. So, they quote a fairly accurate price with the intention of raising the price with added fees on loading day. This can be considered borderline deceptive or scammy because people feel they were misled and have no choice but to agree to the new charges.

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Common Extra Fees Moving Companies Charge.

Moving companies are afraid to explain their pricing structure because they don't want to lose business. However, this is not true. Consumers are more likely to go with the mover who is direct and honest about how their costs are calculated.

Here are unexpected charges that may arise during your long distance relocation, which many state to state moving companies don't explain clearly:

Volume-Based Surcharges.

Weight and cubic feet estimates will always have the potential to increase in costs because household goods moving companies are guessing the weight and size of your belongings. Naturally, this can lead to a company attempting to charge you more, especially if you do not fully disclose your inventory list with your estimator. The best way to avoid estimate price changes is to disclose every item to be shipped with your movers and then ask for a guaranteed price.

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Shuttle Fee.

Many long distance movers unload your items at a warehouse and then load them onto an 18-wheeler truck with other customers' belongings. Because semi-trucks can't always access certain neighborhoods or driveways, the mover may shuttle your load using a smaller truck, resulting in an extra fee. This practice is especially common in urban or tight suburban areas.

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Long Carry Charges.

If your movers must carry your belongings for more than 75 to 100 feet between the truck and your door, you'll likely see a long-carry fee. The charge to long carry your things ranges from $250.00 to about $700, depending on the size of your household goods.

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Bulky Fees.

Moving companies sometimes add a surcharge for bulky or oddly shaped items such as motorcycles, refrigerators, pianos, or large hutches. While occasionally warranted (special equipment or extra manpower is needed), many consumers complain this fee is another way to "nickel and dime" them. Frankly, you can often negotiate bulky-item charges.

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Flight Of Stairs Costs.

Lastly, we have stairway charges. Many moving businesses are upfront about this because the concept is logical and reasonable. A flight of stairs is about 14 steps, and long distance movers charge anywhere between $75.00 to $150.00 per flight.

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These Extra Charges Are Mentioned in Your Contract.

Most ethical movers list potential fees within the contract or tariff, though they may be buried in fine print or loaded with jargon. If your contract lacks clarity, push for an explanation before signing. You'll save yourself from bigger headaches (and bigger bills) later on.

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Bottom Line:

Despite how it may seem, not every mover hides fees. But all too often, low-budget carriers or brokers omit potential surcharges in your initial quote to lock you in, then inflate costs on moving day. Look for movers willing to lay out every possible fee scenario, ideally with a binding or not-to-exceed estimate. In the end, paying a slightly higher upfront cost for honesty beats facing an expensive surprise after your furniture is on the truck.