We understand that people look for understanding the moving cost upfront since it helps with budgeting. At Trek, we offer both options for all local moving services and long-distance relocations:
a) Special off-peak pricing and all-inclusive hourly rates for local moves:
Pros: quick and easy to set up an appointment, the customer pays for the actual labor time; customer can minimize moving costs by packing up smaller items before the move date, arranging closer parking space for the moving truck, reserving an elevator, etc. It fits particularly well for smaller local moves and apartment relocations.
Cons: move time duration is often subjective – there’s a chance you’re under or overestimating your upcoming relocation (high volume, the complexity of the internal layout, additional assembly, packing services, parking situation). Moving companies often apply additional charges for heavy/bulky items, packing supplies, travel distance, gas fees, stairs, long walks, hoisting. The likelihood of damages and injuries is correlated when preparation is too rushed, and movers have to run to make a move faster or have been panicked by the customer in an attempt to save time.
b) Flat rate pricing based on complete details:
Pros: upfront cost based on a visual inspection (in person, video call, photos); one move – one price, no surprises; no worries about additional fees, movers do not rush and are focused on delivering high results, which means fewer chances for the damages and injuries. Overall, more satisfying moving experience by the end of the day. At Trek, we made that option very simple, and our customers can submit all moving details on their account page (the moving profile is automatically created as soon as a moving quote has been requested).
Cons: a flat-rate relocation is often priced higher than hourly moving; moving carriers require entire inventory and all correlated details: internal layout, parking position, approximate walking distance, stairs, packing services for the smaller items (books, kitchen, artwork). For your convenience, our dispatcher will be glad to provide a 5-10 minute visual inspection to give you more accurate calculations (FaceTime, Zoom, Google Meet).
The benefit of the flat rate is there are no surprises. The advantage of the hourly rate is it could be cheaper than the flat rate but also higher. It is really tricky to be particular about every relocation because moving is not an exact science. However, we try to provide our customers with as many instruments and options as possible. We will move you cautiously, efficiently, and we are entirely open regarding which pricing structure you favor.