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  1. Local Moves Aren't Always As Cheap As You Would Think
  2. Average Cost of Moving Locally
  3. How Is the Rate Calculated?
  4. Local Moving: Flat Rate
  5. Mover Travel Fees
  6. Insuring Your Local Move
  7. Liability for Local Moves
  8. Local Move Scams

1. Local Moves Aren't Always As Cheap As You Would Think

Many people who are moving let distance trick them into thinking that they will not have to pay a lot. Even though interstate moves cost more than local ones, the latter can still be costly. That is if you do not approach it in the right way. Moving companies can charge you with hidden fees, or you can be hit with numerous government charges. These can make your otherwise cheap move very costly. To help you with choosing the right local mover and getting the cheapest price possible, we have laid out some local moving basics.
To begin with, let's talk about what a local move is. A local move is often referred to as "intrastate", meaning that it takes place within the state in which you originally lived.
 

2. Average Cost of Moving Locally

Local moves for an average-size home is over $2,000. This figure comes from a recent study conducted by Moving Authority. The study analyzed the average cost of moves processed through our site. $2,154 was the average move cost for a local move. The shipments weighed, on average, 7,200 pounds. When you are booking your move, remember that you might not need four people to complete the job. Your move may only require two men, especially if you have a smaller home. The fewer men you use for your move, the lower the hourly rate will be.

3. How Is the Rate Calculated?

Local moves tend to cost per hour. With this, you should keep in mind that these hourly charges are usually based on a flat rate. Even with a flat rate, there are still some costs that can affect how much you are charged per hour. You will see a hike in your hourly rate if you request packing service, for example. Another additional cost for moving is the stair charge. This charge is incurred when the movers must use stairs in order to transport your goods. When booking the move, ask about what is included, and what you will have to pay for as an addition to the hourly rate.
 
local moving rates

4. Local Moving: Flat Rate

Flat rate options are available from movers as a way to make the payment process more convenient. Flat rate is usually based on an estimate of how long the move will take, multiplied by an hourly rate. The good thing about these types of moves is that they usually include additions, such as wrapping and assembly of furniture. On the other hand, many people have claimed to have ended up paying less with the hourly option. If you really don't like surprises, then the flat rate option is probably better for you. When getting an estimate, always be sure to get one in person. Moving companies cannot give accurate estimates over the internet or on the telephone.
 
It is important to keep in mind that all moves are different. When you are moving in-state, you should expect to pay a different amount if your moves greater than 40 miles. In this case, the cost of the move will be based on weight, as opposed to by hour. If this is not clear to you, then you should ask your mover for more information prior to signing the contract.
 

5. Mover Travel Fees

When you are moving from one city to another, you will be faced with a travel fee. This cost covers the expenses that the movers will incur when in transit. This includes fuel and wages for labor. If you are moving locally, then you should only have to pay a travel fee equal to one hour rate.
 

6. Insuring Your Local Move

Many people become very concerned when they think about placing all of their belongings in a strange truck. This fear increases when they consider that the truck is operated by a stranger. When you are moving locally, the chances of something going wrong are very slim. Even still, it isn't unheard of for something to get damaged on even the shortest move. With this in mind, you should pay attention to what kind of insurance comes with your move.
 
The mover you choose should be willing to present you with proof of insurance when requested. Furthermore, you should be sure that they have a worker compensation program. If it makes you feel more secure, you can buy your own moving insurance as well. As an extra precaution, you should consider taking photos of your possessions. This can help in any insurance claims made later.
 
affordable local moving

7. Liability for Local Moves

When you are moving locally, the company that you choose will likely have a very basic coverage and liability plan. This plan will cover sixty cents per pound per article. This coverage is included in the rate per hour. This is not a lot of coverage, but it is still a very budget friendly choice. It will not be an extra charge on the contract since it is part of the overall price. Keep in mind that this does not cover much. If you are moving a 20-pound chest of drawers and it was damaged in transit, the company would only cover $12. This is regardless of how much the item is actually worth. Companies will typically offer the option to purchase a larger insurance coverage plan. Upper-level plans necessitate the movers to pay for the full cost of your item should it be lost or damaged.
 

8. Local Move Scams


Local moving companies do not have to follow the same sets of rules as their long-haul partners. When you are moving long distance, there is a lot more that has tobe covered. As a result, long distance moves cost more than local moves. Local moves do not require much time or effort. So, they are not under the same regulations as long distance movers. Individual states are the sole regulators of local moving companies. The state governments come up with their own requirements. So, it is important that you beware of scams that these movers could be pulling. Before choosing a moving company, you should research the local regulations that they have to follow.

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