Understanding the Cost of Your Move and Why Transparency Matters
Common Pricing Models
Hourly Rates vs. Flat Rates
The key difference between hourly rates and flat rates for residential moves is how the cost is calculated and how the variables that affect the move influence the final price.
With hourly rates, the moving company charges a set price per hour, often based on the number of movers involved. The total cost is determined by how long the move takes along with factors like narrow staircases, elevator usage or difficult to access homes.
Flat rate pricing provides customers a predetermined cost based on the overall scope of the move, regardless of how long it takes. Moving companies will typically do an
in-home or virtual estimate to assess the volume of items and distance for the move.
Which Option Is Better?
Hourly Rates might be more cost-effective for short moves or when the customer is confident that the process will go smoothly and efficiently.
Flat Rates offer more security for longer moves or complex situations where the customer wants to avoid any price surprises.
Our pricing structure at New Horizons Moving is simple. We charge hourly terminal to terminal for local moves. Local moves are defined as less than 55 miles from point A to point B. Sometimes we will also agree to max travel times as well.
Weight-Based or Volume-Based Pricing
For weight-based pricing customers are charged based on the total weight of their belongings. Once the truck is loaded, your items are weighed, typically at a certified weigh station, and the price is calculated accordingly. A pre-estimate can be provided but the final costs depends on actual weight measured on your moving day.
In volume-based pricing, the cost is determined by how much space your belongings take up in the moving truck. This is typically measured in cubic feet. Bulkier items can take up more space in the truck even if it’s lightweight. How well you pack and stack boxes can influence your final cost.
Which Option Is Better?
Weight-Based Pricing is generally more straightforward for moves involving items where weight is a consistent metric, such as furniture or heavy household goods.
Volume-Based Pricing may be better suited for moves with large or bulky items, such as couches, mattresses, or lightweight but space-consuming items.
Understanding Hidden Fees and How to Avoid Them
Common Hidden Charges: Fees for fuel, extra staircases, long-carry distances, or unexpected delays. These should be explicitly outlined in the estimate.
Clarity in Estimates: It’s very important to have detailed, transparent estimates that break down every potential cost, so there are no surprises.
The Benefits of Transparent Pricing for Moving Companies
Reputation Building: We prioritize transparent pricing to foster loyalty, gain positive reviews from you, and attract future referrals.
Reducing Disputes: We believe that clear pricing helps avoid any misunderstandings with our customers.
Building Trust: We want to establish trust right from the start with our customers and believe in pricing transparency.
Valued Customer Experience: When our customers understand the pricing structure, they are more confident and trust us as their movers.
Why Use New Horizons Moving?
We believe in keeping pricing straightforward and transparent. Unlike many other local and national moving companies that charge extra for materials like shrink wrap, we include everything you need in our hourly rate—furniture pads, shrink wrap, tape, and the tools for disassembly and reassembly are all part of the package. This means no surprises or additional charges for essential moving materials.
When it comes to moves over 55 miles, we take a unique approach. By Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) regulations, moves exceeding 55 miles must be billed based on weight and mileage. While many companies estimate the weight and offer a non-binding estimate, this can result in unexpected costs if the actual weight is higher than anticipated. This leads to customers paying more than they were originally quoted.
We do things differently. We still estimate weight and bill according to weight and mileage, but with one major difference: We provide a binding estimate. This means that the price we quote is the price you’ll pay, even if the actual weight differs from our estimate. Our customers can rest assured that they won’t face any surprise charges later on.
Additionally, our binding estimates include everything—no hidden fees, no taxes added later. The price you see on the estimate is the final amount you’ll be billed. The only additional cost we charge is a 2.5% fee for card transactions, which customers can avoid by paying with check, cash, Venmo, or Cash App. We make sure to explain this upfront, so you’re fully informed before booking your move.
Our goal is to provide peace of mind with clear, honest pricing, so you can focus on your move without worrying about unexpected costs. Call us today and we’ll take care of you and provide you with a no nonsense quote for your next move.
