Frequently Asked Questions about Moving
Straight to the point
If you are like a lot of people who are faced with a significant move, you are doing research, planning, and preparing. You may also be a little road-weary from so much online deliberation. Here are some “to the point” answers to questions that you may have.
The best way to get started is with a plan in place. At least have a good idea of the type of move you want to do. Make a budget and stick to it. Outline your goals, and be sure to talk with your moving team about additional items or issues you may have.
DIY moves are budgeted totally differently, but they still require a plan and a budget.
How much does it cost to move?
This is the major question most people have. Whether you are moving across the city or across the state, you want to know how much your move will cost and what is included. A lot of people will ask about a “ballpark” figure. But there is really no way to be sure that your move will be close until you talk seriously with a moving team.
Talking “ballpark”: If you plan on hiring professional movers, you can expect to easily spend over $1,000. In 2023, the average cost of a local move was $1,250, and the average cost of a long-distance move was close to $4,900. The final cost of any move depends on a number of factors:
- weight of belongings
- distance traveled
- move date
- labor costs
- additional services such as insurance or packing are needed.
What should I consider before hiring a moving company?
Before hiring a moving company, ask yourself what your expectations and desires are. Moving companies can save you time and energy. Because they offer professional assistance, they can easily make your move less stressful.
How do you estimate moving costs?
A Moving Cost Calculator can give you a cost estimate based on several factors. But keep in mind that they as not as accurate as working with a moving team. Also, you always need to “factor in” the cost of extras like packing supplies, boxes, and special equipment.
How much should you spend on Value Protection Insurance
All interstate movers are required by federal law to offer Released Value Protection and Full Value Protection to customers. The cost of Full Value Protection varies by mover, so be sure to ask your moving company for details. There are three levels of insurance:
- Separate Liability Coverage According to Forbes Advisor, “Some movers offer separate liability coverage through a third-party insurance company for an additional charge. While your mover is still responsible for the released value protection, which covers only up to 60 cents per pound, this additional insurance policy will cover the rest of the loss up to the policy limits.”
- Released Value Protection is automatically included in the cost of your move. This basic protection covers 60 cents per pound per item. While this type of coverage won’t cost you anything extra, it is considered the bare minimum.
- Full Value Protection is a wise choice. This level of liability means that if the mover damages or loses a belonging, the mover must either replace your item or reimburse you for its current cash value. Generally, this type of coverage is more comprehensive but more expensive.
Are moving costs tax-deductible?
The simple answer is “no.” You really can’t claim a deduction on moving expenses. Military personnel is the exception. According to the IRS, if the move was due to a military order and permanent change of station, you may be able to deduct your unreimbursed moving expenses.
Note: You can claim a tax deduction on donated items. So, decluttering during your move can offer some tax savings.
How much should I budget for moving?
The short and quick answer if you’re hiring full-service movers for a long-distance move is at least several thousand dollars. The larger the move, the more expensive it will be. The longer the move, the more costly.
Make sure you budget for things like moving supplies, snacks for your personal moving team and items that are needed at your new location. These can add up fast!
If your move requires short-term storage that is an additional cost. Be sure to ask the moving company how much they charge for storage-in-transit.
What is the best way to cut back on your moving cost?
Moving is expensive, but there are ways to save money.
- Purging unnecessary belongings before your move
- Take advantage of moving discounts
- Choosing a less expensive moving date. (Yes, the day of the week that you choose to move matters!)
- Pack yourself. Moving is hard work, and packing is, too, but it can be done fairly quickly if you stay organized.
What are the cheapest ways to move across the country?
It is always cheaper to move yourself, but consider the emotional and physical cost of a move.
Hiring a full-service moving company isn’t the cheapest way to move, but it’s certainly convenient. Renting a moving truck enlisting friends to help with the move and renting the equipment takes planning and there’s a cost as well.
Why is moving so expensive?
No matter how you move, chances are good it’s not going to be cheap. The reason: moving is time-consuming. It requires a good deal of materials and assistance. Moving companies handle the cost of labor, fuel, materials and equipment. In addition, long-distance moving companies charge customers based on the weight of the shipment. So, the more you move, and the heavier the shipment, the more expensive the move.
How much do moving boxes cost?
You’ll likely spend around $2 for a medium-sized cardboard box. Smaller boxes are cheaper and larger boxes are more. You can purchase moving boxes at a local home improvement store, self-storage facility, truck rental company or moving company.
Cardboard moving boxes are typically cheaper than plastic bins. In addition, you can expect specialty boxes, such as picture boxes and wardrobe boxes, to cost more than your run-of-the-mill cardboard box.
When is the most expensive time to move?
Typically, moving costs are higher from May to September. Movers refer to this “time frame” as peak moving season. Here are the reasons why summer is an expensive time to move. If your move dates are flexible, aim for an off-season move. Other move dates that tend to be cheaper times to move include mid-week and mid-month dates.
Will my employer cover my relocation costs?
If you have been asked to take a job that requires you to move, the answer is “possibly,” but that is for you to talk through with your employer. If you do receive a relocation package, save all your receipts from moving service providers. You’ll need to keep track of moving expenses, including moving supplies, fuel costs, truck rental costs, temporary lodging, and restaurant bills during the move. If you use a relocation team, the same applies.
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
The standard answer is eight weeks before your move. This is why it is crucial to get a target date on the calendar along with at least three moving quotes from the professional moving companies. Best advice is to schedule movers six weeks in advance.
Second best advice: Get quotes from at least three different relocation companies. Don’t jump at the cheapest quote. Look to hire the company with excellent reviews and history.
What should I do if I only have one piece of furniture to move?
Most full-service moving companies have minimums, so no matter how small your move is, you’ll still have to pay the minimum amount.
How much should I tip the movers?
For a simple move where you have everything packed and ready to go and the movers just load, transport, and unload your items within a close distance, a $20 tip per mover is sufficient. If your move is a little more intense than the aforementioned scenario, you can tip a little more–think $30-$50 per mover. It depends on your budget and satisfaction with the job.
Customer satisfaction is our top priority at Lambert Moving Systems. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled moving experience that exceeds your expectations. Our highly trained and friendly staff will guide you through every step of the process, addressing any concerns or questions you may have along the way. We take pride in our prompt and reliable customer service, ensuring you are well informed and supported throughout your move.
Lambert is a trusted family-owned and operated business. As Alabama’s Authorized northAmerican Mover, Lambert offers award-winning services coast to coast and is your go-to provider for exceptional moving and storage solutions. Call or Schedule an Appointment to experience excellence.
Are you in the market for a mover in Alabama? Lambert Moving Systems is one of the top companies for moving in Alabama. We’ve been around for 90 years. Find your location below to get in touch now!
Photo by Vaniato on shutterstock.com
