The hidden costs of long-distance moving and how to avoid them

Long-distance moves may seem quite expensive on their own, and any extra fees on top of that can often catch you off guard. While working with a professional team certainly helps reduce the stress, learning about fees and quotes beforehand is necessary to ensure a smooth process. 

We asked experts from High Stream Moving about some of the most common fees and the ways to avoid them. 

Underestimated volume and weight charges

If you ever decide to hire a moving team to help you with the process, you will quickly discover that many moving quotes are based on estimates of weight and volume. If the actual load turns out to be heavier or larger, you should absolutely expect extra charges — no one puts in extra work for free.

If you want to avoid this, you have to be honest about your inventory. Make sure that your own estimates are reasonable and realistic, and ask for a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate from the team if possible. Ideally, request an in-home or video survey rather than a phone estimate if you feel like there might be issues with the team.

Packing services and materials

While some movers include basic packing in their quote, others might not, and that can quickly become a problem, considering that boxes, bubble wrap, and labor for packing and unpacking can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost. 

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As High Stream Moving experts explain, that is why you need to clarify what’s included in the packing service beforehand. If you don’t agree with the terms provided, you can look for a different company to work with, or pack items yourself, especially if you find that buying your own packing materials is less expensive.

Accessorial fees

Accessorial fees are extra charges for any issues with access, like long carry distance from the truck to the door, stairs and elevators, and shuttle service if a big truck can’t reach the house. Sometimes, you’ll find that there is simply no way around it due to where your home is located, but you can at least learn about these fees beforehand so that they won’t surprise you. 

Make sure to inform the moving company about any parking restrictions, stairs, and general building access issues in advance and ask if any accessorial fees apply to your specific location to protect yourself from overpaying.

Delays, storage, and overnight fees

Most moving companies have fees for delays, storage, and overnight, which is why you need to make sure your new place is ready before you hire a team. If you cannot ensure that, for whatever reason, then you should expect to pay extra. In any case, read the company’s policy on delivery spread and storage charges and choose a team that offers flexible delivery windows or temporary storage at a flat rate to save as much money as you can.