Moving can feel overwhelming, especially when you see how quickly the costs add up. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to accept the first price a moving company gives you. With a little planning and a few smart strategies, you can learn how to negotiate with moving companies and save money on your move.
Many people don’t realize that moving companies are often willing to work with you to lower costs or offer discounts. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to negotiate with moving companies to get the best deal possible. From comparing quotes to finding discounts and being flexible with your moving plans, we’ve got you covered.
Why You Need to Know How to Negotiate with Moving Companies
The average cost of a local move is around $1,400, while long-distance moves can cost over $4,000, depending on the size of your home and distance traveled. For many people, that’s a significant expense, but you don’t have to overpay.
Remember, most moving companies want your business and are open to finding ways to make the process work for you. All you need is a little preparation and the confidence to ask.
Request Multiple Quotes to Compare Offers
Why Comparing Quotes Is Essential
One of the most important steps in negotiating is getting multiple quotes from different moving companies. This allows you to see how much each company charges for the same services and identify the best value.
For example, you might find that one company charges $1,500 for a local move, while another quotes $2,000 for similar services. By showing the lower quote to the higher-priced company, you might convince them to match or beat the lower price.
Tips for Requesting Quotes
- Get at least three quotes. Reach out to at least three reputable moving companies in your area. This will give you a better sense of the average cost of your move.
- Ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Make sure the quotes include all potential costs, such as labor, mileage, packing materials, and fuel. For example, one company might include packing materials in their price, while another charges extra.
- Schedule in-home or virtual surveys. To get the most accurate estimate, ask the movers to assess your belongings in person or through a virtual tour. This prevents surprises later, like extra charges for items they didn’t know about.
Leverage Discounts and Promotions
Common Discounts to Ask About
Many moving companies offer discounts, but you might have to ask for them. Some of the most common discounts include:
- Military discounts: Many companies offer reduced rates for active-duty service members and veterans. For example, a company might provide a 10% discount for military families.
- Senior discounts: If you’re a senior citizen, ask if the company has a discounted rate for retirees.
- First-time customer promotions: Some companies run special promotions for first-time customers, such as a percentage off your total bill.
- Referrals or loyalty programs: If someone referred you to the moving company, mention their name—some companies offer discounts for referrals.
How to Approach the Conversation
When you call or email the moving company, ask politely if there are any discounts or promotions you qualify for. For example, you could say, “Do you offer any discounts for military members or senior citizens?” Showing that you’re open to finding a mutually beneficial solution can encourage the company to work with you.
By being polite and specific, you’re more likely to get a positive response.
Be Flexible
Why Flexibility Can Save You Money
Moving companies often charge higher rates during busy times, like weekends, holidays, and summer months. If you’re able to adjust your moving date, you might be able to save a significant amount of money.
Tips for Adjusting Your Moving Date
- Move mid-week or mid-month. Most people move on weekends or at the beginning/end of the month. Choosing less popular dates can lead to lower rates.
- Ask about off-peak discounts. Some companies offer discounts for moves scheduled during slow periods. For example, a company might reduce their rates by 15% for a Tuesday move in January.
- Book early or take advantage of last-minute openings. If you plan your move months in advance, you may get a better deal. On the flip side, if a company has a last-minute cancellation, they might offer you a discount to fill the slot.
Being flexible with your timing shows the company you’re willing to work around their schedule, which can lead to better deals.
Additional Strategies to Negotiate with Moving Companies
Bundle Services
If you’re hiring a moving company for multiple services—like packing, storage, and transportation—ask if bundling these services will save you money. For example, a company might waive their packing fee if you also use their storage service.
Avoid Hidden Fees
Many moving companies charge extra fees for things like stairs, long carry distances, or special packing materials. Ask upfront about these fees and whether they can be waived. For example, you could say:
“Are there any additional fees I should be aware of? Could you waive the fee for carrying items up the stairs?”
Use Competitor Quotes as Leverage
If you receive a lower quote from another company, mention it during negotiations. For example, if Company A quotes $1,800 and Company B quotes $1,600, you could say:
“I really like your services, but another company quoted me $1,600 for a similar move. Is there any way you can match their price?”
Many companies will lower their rates to stay competitive.
Things to Confirm Before Booking
Before you sign a contract, double-check all the details to avoid surprises later. Here’s what to confirm:
- Discounts and negotiated rates: Make sure any discounts or negotiated prices are clearly written in the agreement.
- Extra fees: Ensure there are no hidden charges, like fuel surcharges or fees for stairs.
- Company credentials: Verify that the company is licensed, insured, and has positive reviews from past customers.
Taking these steps ensures you won’t run into unexpected problems on moving day.
Conclusion
Negotiating with moving companies might seem intimidating, but it’s worth the effort. By requesting quotes, asking for discounts, and being flexible with your plans, you can save money and reduce stress.
Remember, most companies want your business and are open to working with you to find a solution that fits your budget. So, don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself.
