The main purpose of moving companies is to facilitate the relocation of businesses and individuals. These companies often use moving vans, although international moves and storage requirements may require special shipping containers. National companies usually have local branches and agents, either as Franchises or Cooperatives, and smaller independent moving firms may operate in local areas. The cost of hiring a moving company varies significantly depending on the type of move and the number of belongings to be relocated.
Costs
The total volume and weight of the load determine the cost of moving. Moving companies prepare an inventory of all your belongings and calculate the cost based on that information. In some cases, the costs solely depend on the weight of your load. For a one-bedroom apartment, the total weight of your shipment may not exceed three tons. But, if you’re relocating a large business, a single moving truck may be adequate.
The cost of hiring movers to move locally varies widely. You can expect to pay between $400 and $480 for a two-person team. The cost will increase if you require specialized services, such as loading and unloading the vehicle. In addition to the labor costs, you must consider additional expenses, such as materials, gas, and transportation fees. A simple three-bedroom move can cost upwards of $800.
Types
There are many types of moving companies. Some specialize moving services London Ontario in long distance moving and others are focused on local moves. The following is a list of common types. A moving company will offer packing, loading, and unpacking services. Some companies will act as carriers, while others are brokers. If you don’t know which type of move you need, you can check with a moving company’s website to determine which services they offer.
Local movers focus on moves within a city. These companies are licensed to operate within a certain area. In some cases, they can even help with a city to city move. In either case, the mover must be licensed at the federal or state level to conduct business. The moving company will consider the ease of the move when determining which type of service to choose. Additionally, a local company may be able to offer lower moving costs, as well as insurance.
Costs of hiring a moving company
When moving, you must determine how much money you’ll be willing to spend on the service. A moving company’s services can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the number of possessions you’re moving and the distance between the new place and your current residence. However, you must consider the extra costs involved with moving large items such as pianos and swingsets. Depending on how much work you want to do, the cost may be even higher.
The rates for moving companies can be higher during holidays, weekends, and the beginning of the month or during the summer months. Some companies charge extra for certain services, such as long-distance travel or stair-climbing. Also, make sure to ask about additional fees, such as parking fees and lodging costs. In addition, the cost for moving services can vary widely depending on the experience level of the movers, so make sure to compare rates to find the most affordable option for you.
Registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
As a licensed moving company, you’re required by law to meet federal requirements. For example, you must carry an inland marine policy, as well as liability insurance with a $750,000 to $5 million limit. You should also obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number. All moving trucks you operate must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and they must be insured for a total combined weight of 10,000 pounds or more.
When you hire a moving company, you should ask them to provide you with an inventory of everything they move. This inventory should list all items, their condition, and whether they are damaged. Make sure to note if you disagree with the inventory, as these notations can be crucial for resolving a dispute about missing items. It’s also a good idea to ask how long the mover will keep your inventory and how much time it takes them to complete it.