Should you local hire movers or go DIY?
Hiring Movers vs. DIY
A three-bedroom house averages around £1700, rising to £5500 for long-distance relocations. Item count matters. Movers often prefer flat rates over hourly charges, which can get expensive. International moves may exceed £15000 when factoring distance and items.
DIY moves entail heavy lifting, renting a truck, and self-packing. A full-service mover handles all these tasks, saving time. However, it’s crucial to confirm the total cost upfront.
Unfortunately, bait and switch scams are common, so vet how much the cost of local moving companies is before you sign any contracts. A moving company is going to save you a huge amount of time, but the cost can sometimes be too much, especially if you’re only moving within the same city.
Selecting a Reliable Moving Company
Review Check
Vet potential moving companies through review sites like Yelp, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Facebook.
Ask for a flat rate
Chris Townsend notes: “Always for the total, flat rate that includes everything from the moving company. You want to avoid the price being jacked up at the last minute, and sadly, this is often the case with less-than-reputable moving companies that are not legitimate.”
Check out the Three Movers local moving cost calculator to get an idea of price.
Longevity Matters
Companies with a longstanding presence offer reliability in handling your significant move.
Request Flat Rates
Opt for a comprehensive, flat-rate quote to avoid last-minute price hikes, a common issue with less reputable movers.
Online Reputation
UnSearch for company reviews with “scam” added to their name to uncover potential issues. Trust Your Instincts: If a company doesn’t inspire confidence, don’t hesitate to explore other options.
Beware of Unrealistic Deals: Anything too good to be true often is. Always get a confirmed total quote before signing any contract to prevent uncomfortable surprises.
Conclusion
Movers offer convenience and expertise but can come with hidden costs and scams. Vigilance is key, from reviewing online feedback and assessing a company’s reputation to demanding flat-rate quotes. Be wary of deals that sound too good. Informed choices, aligned with your budget, ensure a smoother transition for this significant life event. Approach with foresight to avoid costly mistakes.
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