Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, knowing how moving companies estimate your final bill can help you plan better and avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of how moving companies calculate your final moving cost:
The Key Factors in a Moving Estimate
- Weight of Your Belongings
One of the primary factors in any moving cost is the weight of the items being transported. Movers will often perform a visual inspection of the items you are moving or conduct an online visual survey to estimate the weight. Heavier loads mean higher transportation costs, especially for long-distance moves.
- Distance of the Move
The farther you need to move, the more you can expect to pay. Local moves within an 80-100 km radius are generally charged by the hour based on the actual time, while long-distance or cross-border moves are priced based on both weight and distance.
- Additional Services
Moving involves much more than just loading and unloading boxes. Services such as packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty item handling (like pianos or antiques) can all add to your final bill. Be sure to ask what’s included in your quote and which services incur extra charges.
- Type of Estimate: Binding vs. Non-Binding
* Binding Estimate: This is a guaranteed price for the move based on the survey of items being shipped. If you don’t add any extra items or services, you’ll pay exactly what’s on the estimate, regardless of how long or how heavy the move actually is.
* Non-Binding Estimate: This is an approximation. Your final cost may be higher or lower depending on the actual weight of your belongings and the services provided. It’s important to understand which type of estimate your moving company offers.
- Timing and Scheduling
Moving during peak seasons, weekends, or holidays can affect the cost. Flexible scheduling may help you save money.
Get a Free, Accurate Estimate from Premiere Van Lines
At Premiere, we believe in transparency and accuracy. Our team will assess your needs and provide a detailed, no-obligation estimate that outlines all expected costs. We factor in the size of your move, distance, and any additional services you may require. You’ll know exactly what to expect—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Ready to start your move? Contact Premiere Van Lines today for your free moving estimate and experience a stress-free relocation from start to finish!