There are several factors you must consider when you are comparing the cost of hiring a professional mover vs. the do-it-yourself move. Here is a list of things one should consider when calculating the actual cost of the do-it-yourself move.
Truck rental
When you are moving from state to state, you must provide exact details of the move such as origin, destination, exact dates, size of truck, etc to the truck rental agency. Prices can vary depending upon the equipment that is included from the truck rental agency. Rental rates vary depending upon the time of year and the time of the month you wish to move. Summer rates and end of the month rates are much higher due to higher demand for their trucks and equipment. In most cases security deposit is required and it may or may not be refunded to you depending upon the condition of the truck when you return it. There are charges for additional miles over and above your estimate and they are subject to most state taxes. If you have never moved before, trying to guess the size of the truck you will need can be very expensive if you guess wrong. Remember this, your time is probably the most valuable thing you have. You will need several days to pack and unpack plus the time it takes to drive. You also must factor in who will drive the truck, the family car(s), fuel, hotel cost, food, etc.
Pads
Dollies There are three main types of dollies or hand trucks a professional mover will use on a typical move. An appliance dolly, utility dolly or a furniture dolly depending on what needs to be moved. The cost for each dolly will be $10 to $25.
Automobiles
How will you transport your vehicles to your new home? If you plan to tow your car behind your truck, trailer packages can cost up to $225 plus $50 for additional insurance. If you drive your own car, you must factor in the cost of gas, wear and tear, mileage, etc.
Insurance Cost
Insurance cost varies a great deal and can add up to $20 per day on top of the rental charges. Make sure what type of insurance you are purchasing; cargo, vehicle, medical, life, etc. If your rental truck is stolen it may be your responsibility and not covered by insurance.
Packing and Unloading
Most self-moves include the need to locate packing materials. In order to insure that your goods are protected properly, specialized boxes such as dish packs, wardrobes, book and picture boxes are used. Packing materials such as tape, bubble wrap, and white paper are essential to proper packing. The average cost for new packing materials for a three-bedroom home is $900 to $1,100. Remember used boxes can contain insects and roaches that can be transported to your new home without your knowledge.
Mileage
Most rental trucks include mileage charges. Depending on your agreement, you may be limited to a certain number of miles with additional charges for each mile beyond the agreed number. In some cases, the charge can be as high as $.40 per mile.
Fuel Charges
Most rental agencies give you your truck with a full tank. You must return the truck with a full tank or the Rental Agency will charge you a premium to fill up. An average 26-foot diesel truck that is fully loaded will average approximately
5 miles to the gallon. Based on costs as of July 2008, on an 1100-mile trip, you will consume
220.00 gallons of fuel. The average cost of diesel is $5.00 per gallon. Your total fuel cost will be about $1,100.00 for the trip.
When you arrive at your destination, your new home may not be ready to move into. You may be required to unload your goods into storage, return the truck, rent again when your home is ready, and move again. Finding storage on a short-term notice is not easy.
There are even more things to consider that will add to the cost of your move. When all is said and done, a professional mover is a great value for your money.
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Equipment
Other Considerations