What Is a Moving Cost Quote
A moving cost quote is an estimate of what a client should expect to pay for movers and associated services. There are a variety of factors that affect the cost, including the size of the move and the distance.
Local moves generally cost less than long distance moves. Legitimate movers charge based on weight rather than volume (measured in cubic feet). They also take into account fuel costs, toll fees and driver compensation for long distance moves.
Cost of the Move
The cost of the move refers to how much it will cost for movers to pick up, transport and deliver your belongings. This includes the cost of hiring professional movers, as well as the price of any packing supplies you’ll need (such as boxes, tape and bubble wrap).
The date of your move can also significantly impact moving costs. Weekend moves and moves during peak season tend to cost more than weekday or off-season moves.
Long-distance moves cost more than local moves because movers have to factor in extra expenses such as gas, mileage, tolls and lodging for drivers. The size of your home can also add to your moving costs, as well as any special items like a pool table or baby grand piano.
Labor
Whether you hire a full-service moving company or a labor-only service, the cost of your move will be determined by how much stuff you need to be moved. Basic moves include loading a truck or container with your belongings, transporting them to the new location and unloading them.
Moving companies usually charge by the hour and calculate their price based on the number of movers and the distance of the move. They may also ask for a walk-through of your home or apartment to get a more accurate quote.
The cost of packing materials is also included in the moving services price. Some movers provide boxes for rent while others offer free ones as part of the service. Some movers also offer discounts for bulk purchases of packaging items.
Equipment
When a customer hires movers for a move, they also need to think about the equipment required. For example, if the company is doing a full-service move, they will need to provide boxes, quality packing tape and bubble wrap to ensure all items are protected during the moving process. They will also need a truck of an appropriate size to transport all the belongings safely.
For long-distance moves, the cost will depend on the number of boxes and the total weight of the shipment. Customers should consider this when preparing for their move and during the quote process. Moreover, they should consider whether the company is a carrier or a broker. Companies that act as carriers typically offer a better customer experience than those who are brokers.
Taxes
While the tax deduction for moving expenses has been suspended (until 2026 at least), those who are relocated for work may still be able to deduct certain costs from their taxes. The following expenses are eligible for this deduction: the cost of hiring a professional moving company or doing a do-it-yourself move; insurance on your belongings; storage in transit, including foreign relocation storage; costs associated with disconnecting and connecting utilities at your old home and new one; and travel costs (including lodging, but not meals) to and from your old and new destinations, but only if you take the most direct route available.
Because withholding can be a significant burden, many employers choose to “gross up” their relocation payments by adding money for taxes. However, this choice is typically dependent on an organization’s relocation policy, compensation philosophy and the availability of funds.