214-644-6683
214-644-6683

Americans are always on the move. The pursuit of new opportunities, homes, and dreams leads millions to pack up and relocate each year. We want to help you understand the costs associated with moving services and how to negotiate a better rate. This guide will look at travel time charges and the factors that influence them to equip you with the knowledge to negotiate effectively.

Understanding Travel Time Charges

Travel time charges are the fees associated with the time it takes the crew to reach your destination and transit from your old home to the new one. It also covers things like fuel, insurance for the moving truck, crew time, and any tolls. While some companies may offer a flat rate, others might include the charge in the hourly rate of your package. If you don’t see the travel time fee listed separately on your final contract, you can ask your moving company how it is calculated and whether it is included in the overall package.

Factors Impacting Travel Time Charges:

  • Weight: The more items you have, the more it’ll cost. It’s not just big furniture; even small items can add up.
  • Distance: Longer distances mean higher fuel costs and longer hours, contributing to the travel time charges.
  • Moving Time: The actual move duration can also affect costs, especially for local moves where charges might be hourly.

Strategies for Negotiating Travel Time Charges

When it comes to negotiation, timing, and service selection are critical. Moving during the off-peak season might reduce costs as demand is lower. Being flexible with your move date can also lead to better rates. Evaluate the services you truly need. Opting out of non-essential services like packing or unpacking can reduce overall costs. Similarly, managing the volume and weight of items moved can influence the final charge​​​​.

Insurance and Liability: Consider the type of insurance coverage the moving company offers. Full-value protection might increase costs but provides comprehensive coverage for your belongings.

Negotiation Tactics

Negotiating travel time charges requires preparation and a bit of strategy. Here are some effective tactics:

  1. Get Multiple Quotes: Get as many estimates as possible to understand the range of charges and services available.
  2. Ask for Discounts: Don’t hesitate to ask for promotional deals or discounts. Movers often have special offers, especially during non-peak times.
  3. Price Matching: Use quotes from competing movers as leverage to negotiate a better rate.
  4. Transparency and Contracts: The final contract should reflect all negotiated terms, minimum charges, transparent fees, and a detailed service description.

Understanding and negotiating the fees and rates in your moving package helps ensure you are getting the best deal possible. We hope this article sheds some light on travel time charges and helps you make an informed decision when choosing your moving company. Remember, every move is unique, and your ability to negotiate will depend on various factors, including the timing, distance, and the specific moving company’s policies. Approach each negotiation with clear goals and a willingness to find a mutually beneficial agreement.

Ready to make your move and weigh your options? Let AB Moving & Storage provide a transparent, cost-effective, and stress-free moving experience. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. Let’s make your next move your best move!