Understanding moving costs is not just important, it’s crucial. Knowing how much you’ll pay to transfer from your current location to a new one can be the deciding factor in your moving plans. This guide is your key to understanding the factors influencing moving costs in Akron, the cost of different types of moves, and how pricing works.
Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the moving process, save on costs, and choose the right moving company.
Factors Influencing Moving Costs in Akron
The factors that influence moving costs in Akron include:
Distance of Your Move
One of the key factors that significantly impacts your moving costs is the distance of your move. Moving companies typically charge more for longer distances, as the transportation costs increase. This is primarily due to factors such as fuel costs, driver hours, and the need for overnight stays for the moving crew, all of which escalate with distance. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the distance of your move when planning your budget.
Size of Your Move
The size of your move is a significant determinant of the cost. This includes factors such as the number of rooms in your current home and the total volume of items that need to be moved. Larger homes with more contents not only take longer to pack and unpack but also may require more staffing and larger or additional trucks. As a result, the moving process for larger houses is more resource-intensive and costly. Understanding this can help you better estimate the cost of your move.
Type of Services
The type of moving services you opt for can significantly affect the cost:
- Full-service moving: This is the most comprehensive option, where the moving company handles everything from packing and loading to transporting and unpacking your belongings at the new location. It’s the most convenient but also the most expensive.
- Partial packing: Here, the moving company assists with packing only certain items or rooms. This service is less expensive than full-service moving but more costly than self-packing.
- Self-packing: If you pack everything yourself, you primarily pay to transport your possessions. While this is the least expensive option regarding service fees, it requires significant time and investment.
The Season
The time of year you choose to move can also influence the cost. Moving costs are typically higher during the summer months due to increased demand. Many people prefer moving in the summer due to the favorable weather conditions and the school vacation period, making it easier for families to relocate without disrupting the school year. Conversely, winter moves might be less expensive but have challenges like cold weather and potentially hazardous travel conditions.
Specialty Items
Transporting specialty items such as pianos, motorcycles, art, or antiques usually incurs additional costs. These items often require special packing and handling to ensure their safety during transport. Special equipment and expertise are needed, and the extra time and labor involved in packing and securing these items properly can increase the overall moving cost
Average Cost Estimates for Different Types of Moves
Working out how much a move costs is complicated. It depends on multiple dimensions. Fortunately, we list some common moving types below and how much you can expect to pay.
Local moves within Akron
Local moves within Akron cost a single-bedroom home between $592 and $1,183. Prices for a four-bedroom home range from $1,432 to $3,538.
Short-distance Moves to Nearby Cities
The cost of moving to nearby cities is slightly higher, but not by much. Professional moves for a one-bedroom residence from Akron to Cleveland cost $581 to $1,220, while a four-bedroom family home costs $1,460 to $3,467.
For Canton, the one-bedroom property moving cost is $575 to $1,208, while for a four-bedroom home, it’s $1,404 to $3,431. In Youngstown, moving costs average $819 to $2,545 for a one-bedroom residence and $1,726 to $3,818 for a family home.
Long-distance moves within Ohio
Finally, long-distance moves within Ohio (from Akron to Cincinnati) cost a family home anywhere from $2,572 to $5,888.
Breakdown of Moving Costs
Ohio moving companies arrive at their prices depending on how they structure their fees. Some moves charge hourly rates. These capture time spent packing on your property and transporting possessions to your new destination.
Others charge a flat fee after providing you with an estimate upfront. These prices give you more certainty and don’t change, even if movers get stuck in traffic.
Additional costs can also enter the mix:
- Labor. Labor costs reflect the cost of hiring moving professionals. The amount you pay depends on the number of movers involved multiplied by the hours worked and the going wage rate.
- Packing Materials. Packing and moving supplies are another factor that adds to the price. The more you require, the costlier the move.
- Transportation Costs. Moving companies also include various miscellaneous transportation costs, such as fuel, tolls, and vehicle rental (if applicable), in the price of the move.
Additional Services
Additional services can increase the cost of a move. For example, most professional movers add 20% to 40% to the base move cost when including packing services. For “full-service” packing and unpacking, expect to pay approximately 30% to 50% over the base price. For furniture assembly, expect flat fees (usually $40 to $60 per hour per mover required).
Cutting Your Moving Costs
Are you worried about the cost of moving? Don’t be. Here are some tips to cut expenses and get the best possible deal:
Book Your Move in Advance
One of the most effective ways to lower the price of your move is to book in advance. Giving yourself and your movers plenty of time allows you to select the most cost-effective time to move, potentially saving you a significant amount of money.
Declutter
You can also eliminate anything you don’t want to take to your new home. Decluttering reduces the need for additional truck space, again saving you money.
Self-pack
Another way to save money is to pack your belongings yourself. Placing everything in labeled boxes and loading it on the truck can significantly reduce labor costs.
Compare Prices
Comparing quotes from several moving companies can also lower costs. Your first choice might not offer the best deal, but the second or third choice might.
Be Flexible
Finally, being flexible about when you move can lower costs. Moving in the winter is often cheaper than in the summer.
Choosing the Right Moving Company in Akron
Equally important is choosing a moving company in Akron that can get the job done. Here’s what to do:
Research and Check Reviews
First, you’ll want to research and read reviews about the moving company. Use independent platforms like Trustpilot and Google for an unbiased account. You can see B2B Moving’s outstanding five-star reviews from satisfied customers here.
Check Credentials and Licenses
Next, you’ll want to see whether the outfit is professional. Most reputable movers list themselves on the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). It’s not mandatory, but it is often a sign the firm adheres to industry standards.
Movers must also register with the US Department of Transportation if they move possessions across state lines. Registered companies receive a number that can be used to identify them on the FMCSA website.
Ohio doesn’t require movers to have specific credentials or licenses to operate. However, they should have general liability insurance and other cover to protect workers, customers, and other road users.
Understand Contract Terms
Third, ensure you understand the contract and terms. Look out for service inclusions (what you get as part of your package), inventory, coverage exclusions, and estimated dates. Double-check these to ensure they correspond to what you want.
Ask the Right Questions
Finally, ask the mover the right questions. Check no hidden fees are waiting in the wings to make the move more stressful.
Ensure you get the movers to confirm the timeline. Reputable moving companies should tell you when they will collect your items, how long they will be in transit, and when they will arrive at their destination.
Choose B2B Moving for Your Akron, Ohio Move
Moving to a new home can be pricey, but choosing the right company offers exceptional value. Make sure you plan and research your move thoroughly. For a cost-effective and smooth moving experience, always shop around and pack in advance.
Try to be flexible around moving dates and always plan removals in advance. Remember to download our Master Your Move Checklist, which will help you plan your entire move from start to finish!
Book the Best Movers in Akron Today!
If you’re looking for movers in Akron, you’re in the right place. B2B Moving offers stress-free residential moving for people living in the area. Request a moving estimate here or call (330) 201-2475 for a free quote and consultation.
