Let us ease your worry with answers for a few frequently asked questions…
1. What should I consider before hiring a moving company?
Before hiring a pricey moving company, be sure to consider whether or not the expense is worth it for you. If the answer is no, consider less expensive DIY alternatives such as truck rentals or moving containers. However, if your budget is more flexible, and you’d like to save time and energy on your move, then hiring movers may be worth the price. Whatever you do, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each choice carefully before deciding on a move method.
2. How much does it cost to move?
The average cost of a local household move is $1,250 and the average cost of a long distance move is $4,890. If you are looking to hire professional movers, you can expect to pay at least $1,000.
Of course, the cost of your move will depend on a number of factors including distance traveled, weight of belongings, move date, labor costs and any additional services needed such as insurance or packing.
3. How are moving costs calculated?
The cost of an interstate or long distance move is determined by the weight of the shipment, the mileage between the origin and destination, and the labor costs.
Calculating the cost of a local move is slightly different. Local moves are based on a flat dollar amount per hour. Factors that affect this hourly rate include labor costs, services such as packing or climbing an excessive amount of stairs, assembling furniture and other extra add-ons. In addition, many local movers also offer customers a flat rate option. A flat rate is typically the moving company’s estimated number of hours the move will take, multiplied by their hourly rate. Many times this fixed price includes the cost of add-ons as well.
4. Can moving costs be deducted?
Yes! Make sure to save your receipts because your moving expenses can be tax-deductible. Also, if you donate to a charity before or after the move, be sure to itemize all belongings and record their current cash value on the donation receipt. You should be able to claim a tax deduction on those donations.
In addition, if you are moving for work you may be eligible to receive a tax deduction on your moving expenses. According to the IRS “if you moved due to a change in your job or business location, or because you started a new job or business, you may be able to deduct your reasonable moving expenses but not any expenses for meals.” The IRS claims that you can deduct these moving expenses if: 1) Your move closely relates to the start of work. 2) You meet the distance test. 3) You meet the time test. To deduct these expenses, you must fill out and submit IRS Form 3903.
Many moving companies also offer a free estimate or quote when you are inquiring about their services. Get a free quote today by Allen and Son’s Moving and Storage, here.
