Deciding between a flat rate or paying hourly for movers can feel like choosing your own adventure in the moving world.
So, what’s your situation? Are you gearing up for a long haul across states, or maybe just wrestling with a piano down a flight of stairs? If that sounds like you, then we suggest opting for a flat-rate move. This way, you won’t have to watch the clock anxiously as the hours tick by.
On the flip side, if your move is local and looks like smooth sailing, you might want to consider paying by the hour. Going hourly could save you some cash if everything goes off without a hitch. Just make sure you’ve got a good handle on how much you need to move and how complicated it might get.
Below, we’ll go into the pros and cons of each and what you should keep in mind along the way.
Flat Rate
A flat rate in the moving world is pretty straightforward. It’s a single price that’s set after the moving company looks at your space, either through an in-home or virtual assessment.
They’ll take a look at how many items you have and the type and amount of furniture you’re planning to move.
Pros
- Quicker & Less Surprises: Since the movers earn the same amount regardless of time, they have an incentive to work efficiently and finish the job as quickly as possible. This approach also locks in your cost upfront, so there are no surprises on moving day, no matter how long the job takes.
- Reduced Stress: Knowing the total cost upfront and having no hidden fees on the backend can alleviate your stress and help you put more focus on the move.
- Better for Long-Distance Moves: Flat Rates can be advantageous for long-distance moves because of factors like traffic and unexpected delays.
Cons
- Less Flexibility: Flat rate moves typically involve a detailed inventory list, limiting flexibility to add or remove items without affecting the price. Make sure your list is final to avoid any last-minute cost adjustments.
- Overestimation (sometimes): Movers might overestimate the work needed, setting a flat rate that could end up higher than if you’d paid by the hour. To avoid overpaying, compare estimates and understand the contract details.
- Risk of lower quality service: Choosing a flat rate means your movers are paid a set amount, which might shift their focus to speed over care. This can sometimes lead to a rushed job or even a few bumps and bruises for your belongings. To steer clear of any mishaps, it’s crucial to invest time in researching and choosing a reputable moving company. A good mover with solid reviews will prioritize both the efficiency and the safety of your items, ensuring a smoother transition to your new place.
Hourly Moving
Pros
- Pay for Actual Time Worked: With hourly moving, you pay solely for the time the movers spend on your relocation. If the move wraps up quicker than anticipated, you could end up saving money compared to a flat rate.
- Easier to Compare Quotes: Comparing hourly rates between moving companies is pretty straightforward when they all include the same services in their rates. This simplicity helps you easily spot the most cost-effective choice for your move.
- Better for Short-Distance Moves: Hourly moving often proves more cost-effective for local or short-distance moves, where the time required is easier to estimate accurately. Think of it as choosing a quick checkout line when you’ve only got a few items. It’s straightforward and can save you money when the job’s guidelines are well-defined.
Cons
- Unpredictable Costs: The cost of an hourly move can be unpredictable, influenced by variables like traffic, unexpected hurdles, or the moving crew’s efficiency. This variability can make budgeting for your move a bit tricky.
- Extra Fees: Hourly moving companies might tack on charges for extras not covered in their basic rate, like packing materials or specialty services. These additional fees can quickly inflate your final bill.
- Risk of Rushed Work: Sometimes, moving crews rush to finish the job quickly to prevent racking up extra costs for you, which can lead to semi-completed work and potential damage or mistakes during the move.
Should You Hire a Flat Rate or Hourly Rate Moving Company?
It’s essential to consider personal factors and preferences when deciding which option is best for you.
A good question to ask yourself is: Are you moving a long or short distance?
Factors like the distance of the move, size, budget, time, and additional services all need to be taken into account. Ultimately, it falls on you to make the best decision with thorough research and comparing different quotes. Weigh the pros and cons, talk with family and friends for their input, then go with an option. It’ll all work out from there.
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing a moving option?
You should consider the distance of the move, the size, budget, time, and any additional services that are needed like packing and unpacking.
What are some tips for choosing the right moving company?
Research and compare multiple companies (at least 3). Read some reviews and testimonials to get a better sense of the company. And lastly, you should request an in-home visit for them to come by and see your place.
