Professional moving services are an invaluable resource for those looking to simplify their relocation. While they are more expensive than a DIY move, they offer the convenience of labor and equipment that can make the task much easier. In addition to moving, these companies can also provide packing and cleaning services. Choosing the right service will depend on a few key factors, including size and type of move, additional services, and pricing.
Size of the Move
A move’s price will be based on how many hours the crew spends working on the job. An estimator will visit the customer’s home to assess the work and provide an accurate quote. To get the best estimate, it’s important for customers to be clear about what they need. For example, if they want the company to pack boxes, disassemble furniture movers in gainesville fl, or wrap and store artwork, that should be clearly noted in the estimate.
Type of Move
Local moves are typically priced by the hour, while long-distance moves are charged per mile. Customers should ask about the minimum number of hours required for each type of move and whether there are additional charges for specialty items, stairs or elevators, long carries, or packing materials. They should also inquire about the company’s cancellation policy, which will likely be disclosed during the quoting process or shortly thereafter.
In addition to time, other factors that can increase a move’s price are access issues and inclement weather. For example, if a customer’s apartment building does not have an elevator or there are multiple flights of stairs, the company will charge for these extra stair fees. Also, some moving companies have strict parking regulations and may not be able to access the customer’s home or apartment without a permit.
Customers should also ask about the company’s packaging and crating services. If a piece of furniture is too large for the truck or requires special handling, the company might offer packing and crating services to protect it during transport. These are usually a separate charge from the actual move and may be subject to sales tax.
If a customer needs storage in between their pick-up and delivery dates, the company should provide that service as well. This is often called storage-in-transit (SIT) and the price varies depending on the size of the shipment. In addition, a company might charge monthly for the use of its warehouse space.
A full-service move typically includes all aspects of the relocation. This means the movers will pack the customer’s belongings, disassemble any furniture, load them on the truck, drive to the new location, unload and unpack them. The movers will then clean up and dispose of the empty boxes, packing material, and other trash. Unlike the other types of moving services, full-service moves are more expensive and require a higher deposit. The amount of the deposit can be negotiated with the company during the quoting or booking process. Customers should also ask about any additional fees, such as a fuel surcharge or vehicle and driver costs, when they are obtaining a quote.