How to Calculate Your Moving Costs
Regardless of how far you are moving or how many possessions you own, hiring the right moving company can help to make the entire process easier and alleviate your stress—but at what cost? With so many variables to consider when calculating moving costs, it can be difficult to plan your budget, but the team of experienced professionals at Georgetown Moving and Storage Company can help you determine this figure based on a number of variables from the type of move to seasonality.
Contact us today to request a free estimate for moving services in the DC area, or call us at (703) 889-8899 and let us know how we can help.
Factors that Affect Moving Costs
Distance
Average moving costs are based on a number of criteria including mileage and the number of hours it takes to load and unload your belongings. Whereas it may take anywhere between three and five hours to move the contents of your one-bedroom apartment to another one across town, that same move may double or triple in price when traveling a distance of 1,000 miles or more.
Dates
Much like hotels and airlines, there are peak times and peak seasons for moving. Scheduling your move on a weekend or during the summer months will cost you more than it will during midweek or the winter.
Moving Supplies
It’s important to factor in the cost of materials when you are budgeting for your move, including:
- Heavy duty boxes in a variety of sizes
- Packing tape
- Heavy duty totes
- Bubble wrap
- Stretch wrap
- Moving blankets
- Packing paper
- And more!
While you may be able to secure free boxes from your local grocery store, make sure they’re constructed well and free from stains or odors. If there’s any chance of precipitation on your moving day, you’ll also want to make sure the boxes close at the top or have lids!
Professional Packing Services
Professional packing services may add to the cost of your move, but they come with a number of invaluable benefits:
- Time savings
- Experienced, efficient personnel who can maximize space while safeguarding your items
- Fulfilled insurance requirements
- Help with packing oddly shaped or highly valuable items
You can choose to have the experts at Georgetown Moving and Storage Company pack all or only part of your belongings for added protection and peace of mind. Learn more here.
Insurance
The type of insurance coverage that you choose will affect the cost of your move and determine how much you will be reimbursed in the event of loss, damage, or theft of your belongings. Check your homeowner’s policy before purchasing moving insurance as it may be included in your coverage.
Released value coverage is included free of charge and ensures your belongings at a pre-determined dollar value on a per-pound basis. A more comprehensive option is full value protection insurance, which is recommended for long-distance moves or for those who have high-value items and provides the owner with the full replacement value of based on current market prices. Note that items which are packed by the homeowner are not covered under most policies.
Tipping
While not mandatory, you may opt to factor in the cost of a tip to show appreciation for a high level of service. Budget for an additional 5 to 10 percent of the overall cost for local moves, and anywhere from 10 to 15 percent for long-distance moves.
Get a Free Moving Estimate Today
Take the guesswork out of your moving costs by arranging for a free moving estimate from Georgetown Moving and Storage Company. Our experienced movers will ensure your belongings arrive at your destination safely and on time so that you can focus on getting settled in your new home.
Contact us today or call (703) 889-8899 to get started.
