If you have a residential relocation coming up, you may already be trying to create a budget for it. While there are many aspects of a household move that may incur expenses, including time off from work and packing materials, typically professional moving services will account for the majority of a relocation budget. One way to take some of the stress out of the finances involved is to understand all that goes into the written estimate given to you by a moving company.

Mid Cal Moving & Storage is a trusted moving and storage company servicing Modesto, Stockton and the surrounding regions. We believe in transparent communication around pricing, and always break down everything that goes into our estimates. This way, our customers know exactly what they're paying for and have an easier time sticking to their budgets.

Calculating Local Moving Prices

A moving company bases their relocation rates on different factors depending on the type of move. For local moves, most movers charge an hourly rate. Every company may have different criteria as to what exactly a local move is, but most of the time, it's defined as a move within 50—100 miles or less. This is why it makes more sense for movers to use an hourly rate for shorter-distance services. 

The other factor that goes into local moves is the crew size needed. The more hands on deck and the more hours the transition takes, the higher the end cost will be.

How Long-Distance Moving Costs Work

On the other hand, long-distance relocations are calculated a bit differently. Most moving companies consider a relocation that is 100—400 miles or further as a long-distance relocation, and the mileage from your old address to the new one will be one of the main two factors affecting the cost of your move. The further the journey to your end destination, the higher the associated cost. The other contributing factor in long-distance moving costs is the total weight of your household belongings.

What Else May Affect Pricing?

These calculations serve as prices for basic local and long-distance moving services, which typically involve loading and transporting household items. Most moving and storage companies offer a variety of additional accommodations and amenities that many customers opt in for, as they make moving day feel much less stressful. Most of these additional services will incur additional charges, which homeowners should be aware of as well.

Some common add-on services include:

  • Full-Service or Fragile-Only Packing
  • Custom Crates for Antiques or Art
  • Vehicle Shipping
  • Piano Shipping
  • Doorway and Floor Protection
  • Full-Value Protection Options

How to Cut Down on Moving Expenses

There are plenty of tips and tricks homeowners can make use of to cut down on moving day costs. For starters, ask your moving company for an estimate including just their basic loading and transportation services. This way, you'll know how much the bare necessities cost, and have an idea if you have space in your budget for additional services.

There are many more things folks can do to keep prices on the lower end, such as:

  • Get Multiple Quotes
  • Downsize Ahead of Time
  • Move in the Offseason
  • Move on a Weekday
  • Use Household Items for Packing Supplies

As an agent of Bekins Van Lines, Mid Cal Moving is part of a strong moving and storage network with members located across the globe. This affiliation helps us to seamlessly relocate our customers no matter where they need to go, including international moves.

Get in touch with our BBB-accredited and A+ rated company today for more information on all that we can do for you, and we'll give you a free estimate on our moving and storage services.