Believe it or not, this question has no right or wrong answer. For
some the hourly moving rate is a good fit, while others the flat rate.
Today we will look at both and help you decide on what works best for
you.
Most moving companies quote moves based on an hourly moving rate. This
rate varies from city to city and state to state. The rate also
fluctuates depending on the the day of the week and month time frame.
In some instances the hourly moving rate is also accompanied by a
moving minimum. The minimum usually affects smaller moves. By and
large the hourly moving rate is the most common and keeps you alert to
the movers progress.
The flat rate I will be discussing is not the typical flat rate some
movers quote via phone or email. The flat rate I'm discussing is the
"not to exceed" quote. What generally happens here is a home estimator
comes out to your home and conduct a survey of your property. The
estimator then determines based on the number of items a weight value and assesses a cost.
This cost is then used as the price point that the move will not
exceed. Basically, the flat rate moving quote in writing is a
guarantee from your movers that your move will not go over the said
amount. As a rule of thumb, smaller local moves are generally quoted
via phone and charged an hourly moving rate. Whereas, larger moves
require an in-home estimate. Discuss the size of your move with your
moving company. See what they recommend. Some companies say they use
a flat rate and then require you to list your items, without the possibility of adding more later. Using an hourly rate frees
you to move whatever is needed in that time frame, and a flat moving
rate or not to exceed rate allows you to budget knowing what your move
will cost. Which moving rate works best for you? Think about it and choose wisely.
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