214-644-6683
214-644-6683

If you’re getting ready for a long distance move, you’ve probably already come across two ways moving companies charge: flat rate and hourly. And if you’re like most people, you’re wondering which one actually makes more sense—or at the very least, which one’s not going to catch you off guard.

The answer depends entirely on your situation. Not just how far you’re going, but what you’re moving, how complicated the day’s going to be, and how much you care about predictability versus flexibility.

Let’s break down what each one actually means—and what you’re really signing up for.

Flat Rate Pricing: What You See (Mostly) Is What You Get

A flat rate quote gives you one price upfront. It’s calculated based on your inventory, distance, and any extras you ask for—things like packing services, furniture disassembly, or tricky logistics.

The obvious benefit? You’re not watching the clock. Whether the move takes five hours or twelve, the cost doesn’t change. That’s a huge plus if your route includes unpredictable traffic or other variable factors.

That said, flat rate pricing relies on accurate information. If your quote is based on an incomplete inventory—or if you spring surprise items on the crew that weren’t factored in—you might see that number go up. So it’s not always as “locked in” as it sounds unless the quote was built correctly.

Still, it’s a strong option for people who:

  • Have a large move with multiple rooms
  • Don’t want to deal with cost changes mid-day
  • Prefer to plan around one set number

Hourly Pricing: Pay for What You Use

Hourly pricing is pretty straightforward—you’re billed for the time it takes to complete the move. Some companies start the clock when they leave their warehouse, others when they arrive. Travel time, stairs, disassembly, and loading delays? All of it counts.

This model can work in your favor if:

  • You’re moving a smaller load
  • Everything’s already packed and prepped
  • The move itself is relatively quick and easy

But hourly moves do come with some risk. If something slows the crew down—bad weather, limited access, or just the natural pace of the job—your costs can climb.

For some people, that’s fine. For others, it’s a stressor. It really comes down to how much you trust the timeline.

Here’s What We’ve Seen at AB Moving & Storage

In our experience, flat rate moves tend to be the go-to choice for long-distance jobs. The farther you’re going, the more peace of mind a fixed price brings. People like having a number they can plan around—especially when the rest of the move already feels chaotic.

Hourly tends to make more sense for short-haul or in-town moves, especially when there’s not a lot of furniture or the schedule is tight.

Whichever way you go, just make sure:

  • You understand exactly what’s included in the quote
  • You ask when the clock starts (if it’s hourly)
  • You’re honest about what needs to be moved

And don’t be afraid to ask for both quotes. A reputable moving company will walk you through the pros and cons without pushing you toward one or the other.

Moving Out of Dallas? Let’s Find the Right Fit

At AB Moving & Storage, we’ve been helping people move across Texas since 1996. Whether you’re heading across the state or just outside the Metroplex, we’ll take the time to understand your move and help you decide what pricing structure actually makes sense for you.

We’re not going to shove you into a one-size-fits-all plan. We’ll ask the right questions, give you clear numbers, and let you choose the path that feels right. Call us for a free quote today!