If you have a residential relocation coming up, you may have already started putting together a budget. Your budget will have to factor in things like time off work for the move or potentially scheduling childcare so that your kids won't be running around underfoot on moving day, but most of your budget will go towards the professional help you enlist.

Most moving companies will give you an estimate before you've scheduled their services so that you can plan and budget accordingly. Your estimate will be based off of the type of relocation you are undertaking along with the scope of your unique move. For those interested in staying under-budget for their upcoming household move, understanding what goes into your estimate is the best place to start!

Calculating Your Moving Rate

The type of relocation you have on the calendar will affect what your moving team bases your rates on. For example, local moves don't typically have high mileage involved, so they are usually based off an hourly rate and the size of the moving team. The more items you have and the longer the move takes, the higher the final price.

Long-distance relocations, on the other hand, are calculated differently. If you're moving 400 miles or further, your moving cost will be determined by the weight and volume of your belongings, along with the mileage to your end destination. The further the move or the more belongings making the journey with you, the higher your estimate.

What Goes Into a Moving Estimate?

Once you've established the type of relocation you have planned and how your estimate will be calculated, there are still many factors that will affect the overall cost of your household move. Some of the main line items you'll see on your estimate include:

  • Size of Home: The more rooms you have to go through and belongings you need to pack, the higher your moving estimate will be.
  • Labor Costs: Labor costs will depend on how long moving day takes along with the size of the moving crew involved with your project.
  • Timing of Move: Your estimate could be higher or lower depending on what day of the week and what time of year you plan your relocation!
  • Add-On Services: You can expect to see a higher quote if you want to opt-in for many additional services, like storage, customized crating and more.

How to Potentially Reduce Your Moving Quote

If you've called around to multiple moving companies and received several quotes that are all higher than you wanted to pay, there are a few ways you can try to reduce some of the expenses associated with your relocation. Some of our best ideas for lowering your moving estimate include:

  • Downsize: Go through items ahead of moving day and get rid of anything you no longer need or want—this could result in a much more efficient relocation.
  • DIY Packing: Instead of opting for a full-service relocation, take on as many tasks yourself such as packing to reduce the add-on costs of your move.
  • Offseason Moves: Plan your household move for a weekday or during the fall, winter or spring for a potentially discounted moving rate!

Blackhawk Moving & Storage is a trusted Chicago mover with 30+ years of combined experience on our team. We're agents of United Van Lines, a prominent moving company with a global presence, which gives us access to resources, offices and personnel around the world. Whether you're moving locally, moving long-distance or planning an international relocation, we'll get you to your end destination seamlessly and stress-free. Reach out to us today to receive a free estimate on our moving and storage services, and to learn more about all that we can do!