Moving and Your Shipment Weight

The weight of your shipment can have a large impact on the cost of your move and methods the moving company may use. Learn what to be prepared for.

The first thing to keep in mind is that most movers base their prices on the weight of your shipment as compared to local movers who sometimes charge hourly. Generally, the price is a standard weight per hundred pounds and includes normal actions of moving a household. Keep in mind, however, that extra services may be added if they are needed or desired but will be charged at an extra rate.

If you don't have many items in your apartment, the movers should have very little trouble packing your belongings and loading them on their truck as there will be very few boxes and pieces of furniture compared to other moves. On larger household moves the packing and loading can be very cumbersome. Mansions or other extravagant homes will require large crews to pack and load all the items.

Some homes have special items that are heavier than those found in average homes. A mansion, for example, might have a nine foot slate pool table or a grand piano that would need special handling. These items require special dollies and protection to make the move without damage. Additional fees will almost always apply to these items. Be sure to ask your mover for more details. These items will also add significantly to the total weight of your shipment and if you have a very large home, you may require two trucks. An onsite estimator should be able to notify you on how many trucks might be needed. If you have too many items to move, the company will most likely split your moving day into two days, one for packing and one for loading.

Movers must work with loads of varying weights and are usually well prepared to handle your move regardless of weight. You can make it easier, however, if you sell or give away some of your heavy items that you no longer want or need, which will greatly reduce the cost and save time on your move.