How Are Moving Costs Calculated? Your Complete Guide

If you're currently planning a relocation, you may be wondering: How are moving costs calculated? What moving services or add-ons can I eliminate to cut costs and save on my move? Is hiring a professional moving company really worth it?

Logistical planning, physical labor, and professional moving services are all considered in the cost of a successful local or long-distance relocation. From the premium packing materials to the weight of your shipment, there are many factors you'll need to consider to get an accurate estimate.

In this article, we're here to walk you through what's included in moving expenses so you can decide if you should hire professional movers or DIY your relocation. Here's everything you need to know:

The Fundamental Factors Affecting Moving Costs

The main factors that impact a relocation are the distance, home size and the moving services you require. The price can fluctuate depending on the unique needs of your relocation. Here's a breakdown of the different moving factors you'll need to consider:

Distance of Your Move: Local vs. Long-Distance

Distance is arguably one of the most important factors with a moving budget. Local moves tend to be more affordable than long-distance relocations. Mainly because there are fewer transportation costs and shorter transit times. There's also less logistical planning needed. Here's how the different types of moves compare:

Local Moves (Intrastate)

If you're moving to a different neighborhood or upgrading from a condo to a family home, you likely need the help of local movers. A local relocation is a move that is 50 miles or less. It's typically within the same state and can be completed in one working day. These moves are not as complex as a long-distance or cross-country relocation and have lower moving costs.

Long-Distance Moves (Interstate)

A long-distance relocation is anything over 100 miles. Long-distance relocations are more time-consuming and expensive than your average local relocation. Movers are typically required to be on the road for multiple days, meaning you'll need to cover lodging, meals, and fuel costs.

Long-distance and cross-country movers must be professionally trained and certified to handle a move of this size. If you are moving out of state, movers must also have DOT and FMCSA authorization to legally transport items over state lines.

Volume and Weight of Your Shipment

Most professional movers charge by the weight of your shipment. The more items you have, the more you can expect to pay for your relocation. Most movers will use cubic footage estimates to determine how much you're charged for your move. You can consider downsizing before relocating to cut costs and save on moving expenses. Donate, throw away, or sell items you no longer use or plan to keep as you pack your belongings.

Labor and Services Required

The quote you receive from a moving company will include the labor and services required, including the professional support needed for packing, loading, transporting and unpacking your belongings. The movers will also be responsible for driving the moving truck, removing debris, and assembling furniture on your behalf.

If you want to stick with a specific budget, you'll want to look for a moving company offering custom moving plans. This way, you can choose which services your move requires and only pay for what you need.

Timing of Your Move

The time of year and day of the week can also impact how much you pay for your move. Summer and spring are considered the busy season for relocating, meaning there's more demand for moving in certain areas. The time of the week can also impact the cost of your move. Moving on a weekend is generally more affordable than a weekend. Most homeowners wait until the weekend to plan their moving day to avoid taking time off. However, this approach typically comes at a higher cost.

Understanding Extra Moving Expenses

Physical labor and moving services are just a few factors included in moving expenses. Several other costs must be factored into your moving budget. This includes:

Packing Materials

You'll need to consider the cost of packing supplies, tools, and moving boxes for your move. Some movers will provide supplies as part of a full-service moving package. However, if you plan to self-pack your items or don't want to lean on the help of packing pros, you'll need to buy these items separately.

Valuation Coverage

Moving companies are required by law to provide Basic Valuation Coverage with every move. Basic Valuation Coverage covers $0.60 per pound per article. You can explore adding on additional coverage for an extra fee, which is a great idea, especially if you have expensive or fragile items you need help transporting.

Storage-in-Transit (SIT) Charges

SIT charges are fees required for temporary storage during a move. Whether your home isn't ready or needs extra space, temporary storage is necessary for many types of moves. This charge is typically based on the weight of the items you need to store.

Shuttle Services (if applicable)

Depending on where you're moving to or from, you may need to consider a shuttle service for your move. A shuttle service helps move items from a moving truck to your actual home, which can help when a space is too small for a moving truck to go through. It's also necessary for areas with limited parking or small entrances.

Appliance Servicing (if applicable)

Movers are there to help you set up tricky or complicated appliances. With their help, you don't need to invest in equipment or tools to safely and efficiently set up appliances. Everything will be taken care of for you. Depending on the moving company you work with, this will be an additional fee in your moving package.

The Importance of an In-Home or Virtual Survey

How do moving companies charge or determine how much to charge? They conduct an in-home or virtual survey. When exploring the moving costs, you should always ask for an in-home or virtual survey. This is the best way to get an accurate breakdown of expenses for your upcoming relocation.

With an in-home or virtual survey, your movers can accurately determine what's included in your moving expenses and provide a breakdown that aligns with your needs.

Understanding Different Estimate Types

When gathering quotes from different moving companies, there are three types of moving estimates to consider.

• Binding: Binding moving estimates are a fixed price. Your cost will always stay the same, no matter the weight of your items or what you need help moving.
• Non-binding: Non-binding estimates are rough estimates for moving expenses. This means your cost may be more or less than originally quoted.
• Not-to-Exceed: These types of estimates include a "price ceiling," which is the total amount that your move will not exceed, no matter the circumstances.

How to Get a Precise Moving Estimate from North American

How do moving companies calculate costs? They use the information and guidance provided early on in the process. When exploring different quotes and moving packages, you’ll want to be honest and transparent with your movers. This way, you’ll receive an accurate, detailed quote that aligns with the needs of your relocation. 

If you're ready to start planning your next move, request a free online estimate from North America today. We strive to provide our customers with accurate estimates. The price we quote you is what you can expect to pay for your upcoming relocation. You never need to worry about unnecessary charges or extra fees.

The best way to get an accurate breakdown of costs is to:

• Submit a detailed online quote.
• Be honest about the services you need.
• Provide an accurate and detailed list of items you need help relocating.
• Flag complications like elevators, narrow streets or stairs.
• Discuss your needs with a relocation expert on the phone.
• Ask questions and address concerns before you submit a quote.

Ready to start planning your move? Request a free, no-obligation quote today.