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If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
As consumers we've been conditioned to look for the lowest price. However, when it comes to choosing a mover,
the lowest price may not be the best price. Movers are competitive,
and their prices will differ, but since all movers use the same
basic tariff , the final charges will be almost identical regardless
of who you choose. If a mover comes in with an estimate that is much
less than the others, that should send up a red flag and there is probably
good reason to avoid that mover
Interstate moves are charged based on the weight of the shipment and the
miles between the origin address and the destination. Additional services
such as packing, crating, shuttles, pianos, to name a few, will increase
the charges.
The chart below shows examples of typical
pricing based on move size and distance.
AVERAGE COST OF MOVING
INCLUDING PACKING
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Size of household
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From Washington DC to Los Angeles 2628 Miles
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From Baltimore MD to Chicago IL 685 Miles
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From Atlanta GA to Dallas TX 783 Miles
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From New York NY to Boston MA 210 Miles
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1 Bedroom Apartment
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$3900-$5000
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$3100-$3500
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$2600-$3500
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$2700-$3200
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2 Bedroom Apartment
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$5500-$6400
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$3700-$4300
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$4100-$4600
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$3800-$4400
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8 Room House
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$9000-$11000
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$6000-$7200
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$6200-$7300
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$6200-$7300
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9 Room House
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$11000-$13000
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$7200-$9000
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$7300-$9000
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$7300-$8000
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These estimated moving cost are not precise, depending upon time of
year you move, and actual weight (of household goods being moved),
and any additional services required these moving costs could be lower or higher than the
cost shown. If you intend on doing all or most of your packing you could
reduce the cost on average $500 to $1200. However, remember that movers
are not responsible for items you've packed and if something you've pack
should break it most likely won't be covered by valuation.
You best approach is to
get at least three in-home written estimates from
licensed movers. If a mover gives you an estimate which
is significantly below the others, don't use them! Not
only is it likely you've gotten a low ball estimate and
will be required to pay a greater price anyway, but the
quality of the moving services may be unsatisfactory. .
How to Avoid Pitfalls - And The Criminals Posing as Movers
By now you've probably seen news stories about
scam movers
who have abused customers across the U.S. These are criminals who pretend
to be movers, but usually have no license or authority. They offer an estimate much lower than legitimate
movers to get your business. Then, when they arrive at your new home, they significantly boost
the price and refuse to unload your things unless you pay the new, much
higher price, usually demanded in cash.
This is against the law. The bad news is,
most local law enforcement agencies will not
intervene in these cases because they believe they involve private, contractual
disputes. Federal officials responsible for enforcing these laws will take
your complaint, and eventually investigate and will try to help you get
your possessions back, but it is a long and difficult process.
The best way to protect yourself from these
scam movers
is don't get involved with them in the first place.
The website looks very professional, but you've never heard of
the recommended movers.
Use caution when choosing movers from
the Internet. Many sites advertise movers without checking their
credentials. Companies who transport household goods within the state of
CT are licensed and regulated by the Department of Transportation.
Interstate moving companies that move goods between states are licensed
and regulated by the Federal Highway Administration’s Office of Motor
Carriers. The licensing requirements and regulations implemented by these
agencies provide numerous protections for consumers. Always choose a
licensed and insured mover. Learn more.
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