Moving to a new home is an exciting journey, but the costs involved can sometimes catch you off guard. Even when you think you’ve budgeted well, unexpected expenses can arise. To help you prepare, this guide will break down the factors that influence moving costs and explain how moving companies calculate their fees.
What Factors Affect Moving Costs?
One of the main reasons people are surprised by moving costs is that they fail to consider all the expenses involved. Here are key factors to keep in mind when budgeting for your move:
1. Travel Expenses
Moving isn’t just about packing — you also need to factor in the costs of physically getting to your new home. This includes:
- Gas or fuel for your vehicle
- Food and drink along the way
- Possible overnight stays in hotels if your journey is long
2. Size of Your Move
The more items you have, the higher your costs will be. Moving an entire household will naturally cost more than relocating a small apartment or dorm room.
3. Moving Supplies
While you can collect free boxes from local stores, you’ll likely still need to purchase some essentials like:
- Packing tape
- Bubble wrap
- Protective padding
- Specialty boxes for fragile items
4. Packing Services
Hiring professional packers can save you time and stress, but it adds to the overall cost. Depending on the volume of your belongings, this could add a few hundred dollars to your bill.
5. Storage Fees
If there’s a delay between leaving your old home and moving into your new one, you may need temporary storage. Most moving companies charge extra for this service.
6. Timing of Your Move
- Peak Season: Summer is the busiest season for movers, and prices tend to be higher.
- Weekends vs. Weekdays: Weekends are typically more expensive than weekday moves.
- End-of-Month Moves: Since most leases end at month-end, demand is higher, often raising costs.
7. Insurance Coverage
Protecting your belongings with moving insurance is crucial. While it adds to your upfront costs, it provides peace of mind in case of damage or loss.
How Do Moving Companies Calculate Costs?
The method a moving company uses to calculate costs depends on the type of move:
- Local Moves: Typically charged by the hour, based on how many movers are required.
- Long-Distance Moves: Costs are usually based on the total weight of your belongings and the distance to your new home.
Additional charges may apply for:
✅ Specialty Items: Pool tables, pianos, or large artwork may require extra equipment or care.
✅ Last-Minute Changes: Delaying your move or requesting storage may result in additional fees.
Understanding Moving Estimates
When requesting a quote from a moving company, you’ll likely encounter one of these estimate types:
🔹 Non-Binding Estimate: This is an approximate cost that can change after your move. Be cautious — unreliable companies may offer low estimates and increase costs later.
🔹 Binding Estimate: This is a fixed price agreed upon upfront. Even if the final cost is higher, you won’t pay more. However, if the actual cost is lower, you won’t pay less either.
🔹 Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate: This is the best option for budgeting. It guarantees you won’t pay more than the quoted price — and if your final costs are lower, you pay the reduced amount.
Get Transparent Pricing with TDH Moving and Delivery
At TDH Moving and Delivery, we prioritize honesty and customer satisfaction. Our team provides clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Whether you’re moving locally in St. John’s, Mount Pearl, or elsewhere in Newfoundland, we’ll ensure your move is smooth and stress-free.
💬 Contact TDH Moving and Delivery today for a free, accurate moving estimate!
📞 Contact TDH Delivery & Moving today for a free quote!