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What Hidden Fees May be Included With Hiring a Mover

Every professional moving company is required to comply with federal regulations regarding how much they can charge for service. However, be aware that hidden fees are always lurking in the darkness. Learn how to avoid surprises to your bill by finding out what hidden fees can be included with hiring a mover.

Necessary Fees Included With Hiring a Mover

In general, moving companies arrive at a rate by determining the size and distance of the move. Professional moving companies calculate the weight in pounds and distance in mileage. Part of the mileage fee will likely include the cost of gas. Some shorter distance moves can offer an hourly rate.

Fees for Large Valuables

You can get charged more for having heavier things moved, like a refrigerator or piano. It also costs extra to transport large valuables, like antique furniture and paintings. Essentially, many items that are difficult to haul and have a high dollar value attached will include an additional fee. Keep in mind that many large valuables will also require additional insurance, should anything be damaged, lost or stolen.

Flight Fees

If you live up a flight of stairs, or are moving to a third storey apartment building, expect to pay more for the haul. These are commonly referred to as "flight charges." Some companies may not include the fee if an elevator is available. However, make sure to find out any stipulations, as you may incur a different hidden fee.

Walking and Shuttle Distance Fees

There is a limit to the distance a hired mover will travel to pick up your items and load them into the truck. The distance from the truck to the front door of your house should meet fixed calculations. To go beyond that fixed distance will include another fee.

Shuttle distance is another hidden fee that may be included with hiring a mover. This is a service fee for circumventing any obstacles to your home. If the truck can't be parked near the house, a small truck is used to shuttle your items.

Assembly and Disassembly

Each full-service moving company has different conditions for what they consider packing and unpacking. Generally, any item that necessitates assembly or disassembly will incur a specialty charge. Pool tables, aquariums and the like may require the need for an expert service, and it will cost you extra.

Moving Company Packing Supplies

There is an extra fee for packing supplies. Not only that, but many professional moving companies also require that you pack according to their regulations. Depending on the materials they require, packing can get pretty costly.

Beware of other hidden fees when you hire a moving company. Make sure your new home is ready for the move-in. Otherwise you can get stuck with storage fees. Moving on weekends and holidays costs more. Early summer months tend to cost the most. It might be cold, but it pays to move in January. Well it costs less anyway.

Ways to Avoid Hidden Fees

You can lower the cost of moving by getting rid of some of your things. The lighter the load, the lower the rate. You can also search the Internet and compare competitive rates from the best moving companies in the industry.

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