Reasonably Priced Movers
The demand for affordable moving services is increasing and consumers are looking for reasonably priced movers with good reviews. This is a deal breaker when weighing options such as Uhaul versus long distance movers. Finding the lowest price is not the only concern; it is about securing a service that offers the best value for your money.
Understanding Long Distance Moving
Long distance moves involve moving out of state or within 400 miles. Some people call it state to state or interstate moving: either way, it involves the same thing. The Key to this process is ensuring your movers are licensed to transport furniture across state lines.
What's A Reasonable Price
Experienced and affordable movers are not always the cheapest option and that's not a bad thing. They strike a balance — they're not the cheapest, or most expensive, they provide value.
Here's a rough guide to set your expectations:
For Small Loads: Around $3,000 is a fair price for shipping limited belongings over a long distance.
State-to-State Moves: An average cost of $4,500 is reasonable for moving a standard household's items.
Cross-Country Moves: A price under $7,000 is relatively affordable for a coast-to-coast move.
Keep in mind, that these are ballpark figures, prices vary based on the labor you hire. Always get a quote from a few movers for accurate pricing.
Understanding Your Moving Needs
Before choosing a moving company, it's important to assess your specific needs. Are you moving a few items or a full household? Do you have delicate items like antiques or pianos?
Small Loads Long Distance
Many people looking for reasonable movers because they don't have a lot of stuff. No one wants to pay an unreasonable amount of money to move a few items, regardless of the distance.
Solution:
Companies like Mini Moves and American National Movers specialize in smaller moves, providing lower costs.
How Do You Move A Small Number of Things
The best way to move a small amount of furniture is by renting a Uhaul or by hiring movers who will share your load.
Shares load Movers have an average cost of $2,500 for small long distace moves.
The average cost of renting a U-Haul for a long-distance move ranges between $1,500 to $3,000. This cost can vary based on factors such as the size of the truck, the distance of the move,
Average Cost For Out Of State Moves
When shopping around for someone to ship your furniture between states you will get a wide spread of estimates ranging from $3,500 to $20,000.
For Example:
We called three long distance moving companies to get a quote for a large moving moving from TN to FL:
Two men and a truck quoted us a whopping cost of $23,000.
Allied quoted $12,500 to ship a large home from Tennessee to Florida.
American National Movers quoted a price on the reasonable side of $7,500.
Comparing apples with apples before deciding which option is best is important, as every moving company operates differently.
National Moving Companies
National moving companies have reasonable prices for long distance moves and interstate moves. Being that they are in many states they are one of the best moving options for long hauls.
Negotiating With Your Movers
Don't shy away from negotiating with your movers and be open about the budget you have in mind. While you might not get the exact price you want, expressing your budget can lead to a price you can afford. It is a conversation worth having, especially when movers are competing for your business.
Why is Long Distance Moving So expensive?
As of 2022, there are 17,251 Moving Services businesses in the US. If you feel that a business is being unreasonable, get another quote elsewhere. Some companies are affordable, others can be expensive. Up to you to discern if their moving services justify the cost.
U-Haul Vs. Movers
Consumers moving a smaller load might feel confident enough for a DIY move, but is Uhaul better than movers? It depends on the distance and size of your shipment. U-Haul is better for small moves but most people say that the convenience of hiring full-service movers outweighs the cost difference.
Affordable Long Distance Movers
Many seeking a budget-friendly moving option find success with reasonable long distance movers with an experienced service. A cost-effective move doesn't mean choosing the cheapest option; it's about finding a balance between cost and quality.
Cheap Moving Company
Beware of companies that promote their services as the cheapest available. Scams often hide behind low prices. While finding affordable movers out of state is possible, it's important to ensure their prices are realistic.
Choosing The Best Option
Most people looking for a reasonably priced moving company are not looking for the cheapest quote. They are looking for a reliable option with a fair price. Before negotiating with your movers do your homework and Ask yourself: are they reputable?
Customer Reviews
Sometimes companies are desperate for work so they give you the cheapest bid, but did you check their reviews? Countless times, a quick Google search of a business has helped me avoid scams.
What To Know Before Hiring Movers
As a consumer, it's essential to understand your rights and responsibilities. A smooth moving experience involves knowing what to expect and what's expected of you.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The FMCSA is the lead federal government agency responsible for regulating commercial vehicles, which includes interstate moving companies.
Understanding Your Moving Costs
Long distance moving companies have different pricing structures and it's important to understand how your costs are being calculated. Some charge by the hour, others by the total weight or volume of items, and some offer flat-rate movers. This makes it hard to compare prices directly and can lead to confusion about which option is best for your needs.
Factors Influencing Long Distance Moving Costs
Labor, fuel, logistics, and insurance influence the costs of long-distance moving. Understanding these elements can help you better appreciate the quotes you receive.
Binding Estimate (Flat Rate Movers)
Request a binding not-to-exceed estimate for a clear understanding of your moving costs (flat rate movers.) This type of estimate guarantees that your final bill won't exceed the quoted price.
Non Binding Estimate
The FMCSA requires estimates that are not binding to be reasonably accurate. While non-binding estimates should be accurate, they can vary. Be cautious and clarify all details to avoid unexpected charges.
Early Planning
Start researching moving companies well in advance. Early planning can lead to better decision-making, avoiding moving scams, and cost savings.
Last Minute Movers
A move booked in advance costs about 20% less than a last-minute move, so try to book your move in well advance for savings.
Packing Services
Professional movers will pack your furniture, but they may charge extra to pack fragile items. Full service movers are worth it, they have insurance, but if you pack it and anything breaks, you pay for it.
Legitimate Movers
Legitimate moving companies will always have a DOT number. Confirm their credentials via the FMCSA's website at www.protectyourmove.gov to ensure you're dealing with a reputable provider.
licensed And Insured
Long distance moving companies must obtain a license, (DOT number) and insurance to perform state to state moves.
Are You Being Scammed?
Verifying a movers DOT number for an out-of-state move is a good start but it doesn't always mean that they are legit. Check for complaints online and see what people have to say about the company before hiring them.
Moving Insurance
Moving insurance covers the loss or damage of your items. However, if you do not purchase full coverage, your stuff is only worth 60 cents per pound per article. - For more information on this click here.
Packing Materials
When receiving a quote from movers, it's important to note that it may not include all packing materials. While moving blankets and tape are often standard, any additional materials required for packing will cost more.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
Cash Only: Do the movers only accept cash for payment? I don't think so, that seems shady to me.
No In-Home Estimates: Reliable movers usually offer to assess your belongings in person or on a video call.
Large Deposits Required: Be cautious if asked for a large deposit before the move.
Extremely Low Estimates: Quotes significantly lower than the market rate can be a trap.
Why A lot of Movers Have a Bad Reputation
The nature of the moving industry comes with the risk of damage, unexpected costs, and even delays. This can trigger an emotional response to the consumer and leave them to write a negative review.
As a moving company, it is our responsibility to do our best to provide you with a good experience. Unfortunately, things happen, which can make someone feel like the movers took advantage of them.
Pro Tip:
When looking at a brand's reputation, pay attention to its response to a negative review. If they are trying to make things right, then they may be worth considering.
7 Reasons to Hire Professional Movers
Speed and Skills: Professional movers are fast, sometimes even cheap and they know the best ways to move your stuff. This means less time moving and less stress.
Keeping Things Safe: They use the right materials and methods to pack and move your things, reducing the chance of anything breaking.
Insurance: One of the best reasons to hire movers is because they are liable for any damage. Do the move yourself and If anything breaks then it's on you to cover the cost of damage.
Less Risk of Injury: Lifting heavy things can be dangerous, especially for older adults. Let the movers do the labor, trust me: moving is far from easy.
No Need to Ask Friends or Family: When you hire movers, they must provide you with their services. Asking your friends to help you pack and move is an option but is not always reliable.
Might Save Money: The costs compared to renting a Uhaul Vs. Hire movers are not too far off anymore. Some companies are willing to compete with Uhaul to earn your business.
Extra Services: Many movers offer extra help, like storing your stuff or setting up furniture in your new place.
Finding Reasonable Long Distance Movers
Finding reasonably priced movers for a long-distance move involves researching and comparing various options.
Remember to consider the balance between cost and quality, check movers' credentials, and understand your specific moving needs.
Whether opting for a full-service mover or a DIY option like U-Haul, ensure you get value for your money. Then negotiate and check reviews to choose the best option for your move.
Hiring a full-service moving company is worth it, as long as you do your research and take the moving process seriously.
Whether you go with Uhaul or affordable movers there will always be pros and cons, regardless of the option you choose.
Overall, moving companies provide peace of mind, truck rentals give you full control of your shipment. Both options have proven to be reliable.
Some brands are more expensive than others but if you do enough research, you'll be satisfied with the result.
Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when it's a long-distance move. Best Movers Toronto truly alleviated that stress for me. The team was punctual, courteous, and efficient. They took great care of my belongings, and everything arrived intact.