Planning to move?

Is a "Moving Day" in your future?

Don't Ask, Don't Tell?

That is, if you don’t ask moving companies the right questions, they may not tell you about add-on charges that could surprise you unpleasantly when you get their final bill.

There are some potential expenses you may not have considered when using a moving company. When people start planning a move, they might begin by going online to get a few moving quotes. Most companies will offer you a free quote, online or over the phone, so it’s really easy! BUT, you should keep in mind that these quotes will only give you an approximation of your total moving cost.

Here are a few things that won’t typically be in their off-the-cuff figure. Not exactly a “hidden fee” but some things you may have failed to ask about.

1. Extra weight
Many moving companies base their quotes on the weight of the shipment, but this means that the accuracy depends on how close the weight estimate is.  Whose figure is it? If the movers pick up your items and they appear to weigh much more than you told them, then the company will do a re-weigh, and BAM the price goes up.

2. Stairs
Tell them about stairs inside and out. They may charge you something per flight of stairs. And of course, don’t forget, this applies to the house you are moving TO as well as FROM.

3. Accessibility
If you have a long driveway or if your home sits on a main road with nowhere for a truck to park, then this could result in an extra charge. They may even need to have a smaller truck or piece of equipment to move your items into/out of your home and to the main transport.

4. Specific time frame
If you need your items delivered within a very specific time frame, expect the moving company to charge you an extra fee. Keep in mind, in some cases movers, particularly long-distance movers, will fill up a truck with a second family’s things if you have not maxxed it.

5. Boxing/crating fees
If you’re supposed to have items boxed or crated and have not, you will be charged for the movers to box or crate them. This can easily run into hundreds of dollars extra, so have your items packed and ready to go before the movers arrive.

These extra charges don’t mean they are trying to rip you off, they are just some of the things that truly impact their time and expenses in working for you. Don’t hesitate to ask them.


Of course it should come as no surprise that MY favorite part of the moving process is selling the house you are leaving and finding you the new one! I'm ready to help!  CLICK HERE


Please visit my website jimatthetop.com for a wealth of information and how-tos about buying and selling real estate, Houston area communities and neighborhoods, financing, helpful resources and more. 

JIM AT THE TOP

Jim Pedicord RE/MAX Top Realty

http://jimatthetop.com
jimpedicord@remax.net

281-610-7847 Cell
713-558-2537 Direct
713-773-3700 x 2537 Office  

713-773-3311 Fax

2911 S. Sam Houston Pkwy. E.   Houston, TX 77047