When planning to move your household or office items, there are several things you need to consider. One major factor to look into is the cost of moving. Moving is an expensive affair, whether a local move or a long-distance one.
Some people decide to engage NYC commercial movers, while others prefer a DIY move; no matter which strategy you prefer, it is important to know how much you need to make the process successful.
If you hire professional movers to help you relocate, they will give you the moving quotes. Fortunately, it is possible to negotiate the moving costs with a moving company. Below are tips on how to negotiate with a moving company.
Tips to Negotiate With a Moving Company
- Get an estimate from different moving companies
The first step you need to take to ensure you reduce the moving costs is to get an estimate from different companies. Do some research and learn more about the moving estimates.
Also, you need to decide your requirements and what to expect from a moving company. Hence, visit several moving company websites; compare conditions and tariffs, and the services they offer.
Even though estimates should not be the main determining factor, visiting the website will give you an idea of what to expect from professional movers.
- Prepare a moving budget
The next step is to have a moving cost estimate. Start by evaluating how many household items you have and your average cost of moving. Luckily, several free online moving calculators give you a rough idea of how much you need.
- Compare estimates from trustworthy moving companies
With a budget, you can now compare estimates from various reputable moving companies. With multiple quotes, you will be able to negotiate with the movers. The good news is that there is no limit to the number of quotes you can receive.
Now discuss with the moving companies about the costs and how they can be reduced. Since online quotes might not be accurate, the movers must visit your home to take stock of the items.
The movers will check the items to identify those that need special packing and handling. Therefore, make sure you discuss any extra costs with the company. This will ensure there are no surprises.
Then compare the quotes provided by different companies, what might be missing, and ask questions to make sure everything is in line. It is good to have an open discussion and let the company respond to your demands.
- Make sure the moving company is licensed, insured, and trustworthy
Before recruiting a moving company, it is vital to confirm whether it is insured, certified, or registered. Keep in mind that the moving industry has many red flags that you should be cautious about.
Hence, verify the company’s license with the relevant authorities and check the background to learn about their history. It is also a good idea to go through customer reviews and feedback. This will ensure you do not lose money by involving an unreliable moving company.
- Ask for promotions, discounts, and offers
Most moving companies, such as NYC movers, have discounts and offers regularly. However, it is a good idea to personally ask for the offers and discounts. Also, even if the company does not have offers at that specific time, they may give you a cut just because you asked.
- Save on extra services
It is also possible to lower the moving cost estimate if you can compromise on some services. For instance, packing and unpacking are some expensive services you can compromise.
So, if you can start packing early or engage your family and friends to help you pack, you can manage to reduce the moving cost. However, it is essential to note that you need to pack your items well.
- Declutter
It is important to note that the less you pack and move to the new home, the lower the moving cost. Therefore, it is crucial to sort out your items and only move what you need in the new home.
It would help if you got rid of the things you do not use or need. You can sell them to get extra money or donate them to friends. The money you get after selling the items can be used for moving expenses. If you donate to charity, get a receipt for tax deductions later.
- Book the moving company as early as possible
You need to make up your mind on whether to hire a professional mover as early as you can. If you are hiring a professional moving company, book early. When you book early, you will likely get a company discount.
But when you contact movers at the last minute, the moving cost may hike. Moreover, you are unlikely to move on the day you expected to move. Hence, book early because you may get a cheaper moving quote.
Bottom-line
Since moving is an expensive process, it is a good idea to look for ways how you can reduce the moving expenses. Happily, many companies are willing to negotiate the costs.
By following the above tips, it is possible to get a cheaper moving quote. Nevertheless, make sure you engage a reliable moving company. By hiring a trustworthy company, you will be assured that the move will be smooth, stress-free, and cheaper.
