As a general rule, it’s always good to shop around. So if you’re in the middle of gathering multiple moving quotes, you’ve probably quickly realized that the numbers can really jump around. One company might quote you a few hundred dollars less than another. But what’s really going on? Aren’t they dealing with the exact same type of move?
The truth is, moving pricing can feel confusing because not all quotes are built the same way. Some are transparent and realistic. Others seem great only because they’re leaving out key details. AKA: You’ll be faced with some surprises on moving day. Let’s pull back the curtain on how moving company pricing actually works!
Why Do Moving Quotes Vary So Much?
It’s important to realize that moving estimates vary precisely because companies calculate their costs differently. Some rely on vague averages. Others will deliberately underestimate their time or crew size to make them appear more affordable upfront. Then they wait to add those extra costs to the final bill.
Everyone wants to save money on their move. But in a lot of cases, getting an extremely low quote just isn’t realistic. It usually means the company isn’t reflecting the actual scope of the job. Your property’s square footage, moving distance, and preparation level all influence the final cost. If one company factors those in carefully and another doesn’t, then of course you’re going to be looking at a big pricing gap. The trouble is that the gap usually closes once the move is underway. Companies that downplay their rates upfront usually make up for it with an unexpectedly hefty bill once the job is done.
Hourly vs. Flat-Rate Pricing Explained
Most moving companies use either hourly pricing or flat-rate pricing. Understanding the difference is key. Hourly pricing means you’re billed based on the time it takes to complete the move. If the job runs long, the cost increases accordingly. Flat-rate pricing can mean different things depending on the company. Sometimes it’s a fixed number regardless of time. Other times, it’s based on the crew size required, with the expected time factored in.
At Colt Moving, pricing is built around the exact length of time it takes to complete your move. There are no hidden fees or surprise add-ons that appear at the end of the day. Rates are clearly listed online, along with our specialty item fees. We’ve been in the business long enough to know what’s fair for everyone when it comes to pricing. What’s more, customers can always speak directly with one of our team members to talk through any specific questions about your move. We know that there’s a lot to consider. We can help you get the most accurate estimate!
What Actually Affects Your Final Cost
There are several factors that will determine what you’ll ultimately pay for your move. It’s a good idea to know them before you book! For example, crew size plays a major role. As a general rule, one truck and two movers is recommended for every 1,500 square feet of space. Of course, every move is different, so it helps to think about your own specifics. If you have oversized furniture, for example, or multiple staircases in your apartment complex, then adding a third mover might make sense. Then you can feel confident that your move will be efficient and that you won’t run into delays on the big day.
Time is another major variable. In our experience, a typical 1,500-square-foot move with one truck and two movers usually takes between five and eight hours. It just depends on how prepared everything is when the crew arrives. Say, if there’s furniture that needs to be broken down and reassembled, then you might be looking at a longer day. Preparation can have a big impact on timing. Having all of your boxes packed and creating clear pathways will help the crew work at the top of their game.
It’s also important to consider every space. If you’re unsure about square footage, a helpful rule of thumb is that one truck typically holds about five to six rooms of furniture. But even if your home doesn’t seem large, and you’re planning on the standard two movers per 1,500 square feet, you still need to account for your garage or patio furniture and any storage units. And if your property is on the grander scale, and you’re not looking to add another truck and crew, then you should expect the move to go past that typical eight-hour estimate.
Why “Cheap Quotes” Often Aren’t Cheaper
A quote that looks significantly lower than others usually comes down to one of two things: either something has been underestimated, or something hasn’t been disclosed.
Underestimating crew size or time will obviously make an estimate look more affordable. But you have to be prepared that if the move runs longer than expected, then your final bill is going to increase. There could also be hidden fees for fuel, stairs, or heavy items. Make sure the company you choose makes their pricing process very clear right out of the gate. You don’t want someone to inflate the cost after the job has started.
At the end of the day, that initial “deal” you found might end up costing you more than a transparent, realistic estimate from the start. For us at Colt Moving, we believe pricing should reflect the true scope of work. Don’t get fooled by what just sounds good over the phone.
How Colt Keeps Pricing Transparent
Transparency starts with clear information. Our pricing is published online so you know exactly what to expect from our team! We also have scheduling managers available if you want help sorting through your specific details.
We know that having a realistic budget is important for your move. That’s why you won’t find any surprise fees added at the end of the job. Our pricing structure is purposefully built around our time and crew requirements, so we don’t have to turn to hidden charges. Our customers know what will affect their cost when they book. Then they can plan accordingly!
How to Estimate Realistically
When expectations are clear, the entire moving experience can feel a lot less stressful. That’s what we’re all about! We know that moving quotes can vary, so we hope you’re in a position to see how each company is actually calculating your estimate. Your crew size, square footage, travel time, and specialty items all need to be considered.
Along the way, it’s also good to be honest about how prepared you’ll actually be on moving day. Even a little extra effort to get everything ready for when the crew arrives can make the process smoother for everyone—and help you save!
When you understand how moving company pricing actually works, you can book your move with confidence. If you have questions about our own approach, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!