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How
Moving Charges Are Determined
 Contact us for a free estimate
Determining the cost of an interstate move was much simpler
a decade ago. Back then, all moving companies charged the same rate based on the total
weight of the shipment and the distance of the move. These rates--or tariffs--were set by
the federal government. Shipment tonnage was determined by weighing the truck before and
after the goods were loaded. This amount was multiplied by a predetermined rate. Upon
delivery, the driver was paid in cash or by cashier's check. No matter who moved you, your
cost was the same. Van lines competed on service quality alone.
Today, however, van lines have some flexibility in
determining charges, depending on the specific needs of the customer. While tariffs still
are determined by an industry organization called the Household Goods Carriers' Bureau,
moving companies can relate their charges more closely to their actual costs and
prevailing market conditions. Prices, determined locally, can vary between different
movers. Price, however, is only one factor to be considered by a prudent consumer.
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 As mentioned earlier, to determine a price
that is fair, the moving counselor must take a full and complete inventory of the
possessions that you want moved. He or she will inspect your attic, basement, and garage,
as well as anything you have in storage. (By the way, you'll be responsible for removing
items from attics, crawlspaces, and other hard-to-get-at storage areas.)
On a local move, your cost will most likely be based on an
hourly rate and the amount of time it actually takes the movers to handle your shipment.
On an interstate shipment, however, the cost still will be largely dependent on the weight
of your shipment and the distance between origin and destination.
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 In either case, you should determine which
items have outlived their usefulness, so that you don't pay for moving something that you
don't really need. (There's no better time to clean out closets, drawers, attics,
crawlspaces, etc., and get rid of those things that you no longer use.) Also make sure
that the moving counselor is fully aware of what's not being moved. The savvy consumer
will make these considerations carefully (pay careful attention to Garage Sale Guidelines--One Way to Save Money on Your Move).
After taking into account everything that needs to be moved,
as well as any special services that you may need, the moving counselor will prepare your
estimate. Your final cost will be based on the actual weight of your shipment, plus the
charges for any extra services. However, if the estimate was too low, you'll be expected
to pay the estimated cost and up to 10 percent of the overage upon delivery. The balance
will be due within 30 days.
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On an interstate shipment, you might be offered a binding
estimate. This price is guaranteed--regardless of the actual weight of the items
estimated. If after receiving a binding estimate, you have any changes regarding special
services or have additional items to be moved, be sure to advise your moving counselor of
those changes prior to your moving day.  Such
changes are likely to affect the final cost of your move, and the van line has the right
to void the binding estimate.
In addition to shipping costs, you'll be charged for any
additional services such as packing, unpacking, and appliance servicing (detachment and
hook-up). Also, if the van foreman and his crew have to contend with an especially long
distance or several flights of stairs when loading or unloading your goods, there will be
an additional labor fee for the extra effort required.
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One final note regarding the price of your professional
move: Remember that, as is the case with any product or service that you buy, you usually
get what you pay for. The lowest price doesn't always mean the best value. In selecting a
professional mover, consider such factors as reputation, reliability, performance record,
claims settlement processes, and overall commitment to customer satisfaction.
By the way, some moving expenses are tax-deductible, so save
receipts and check with your tax advisor for details.
This survey allows the counselor to provide you with an
estimate of costs and various pricing options you may choose from. Once you've selected a
mover, you'll be asked to sign an Order for Service at which point your moving counselor
will register your move with the van line.
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