One of the most frequently asked questions when people move is whether or not they should hire a moving company. The decision to hire a moving company or do it yourself will depend on your personal needs and different factors including money, time, complexity, and distance.
If you are moving across town, moving on your own certainly could be more manageable. But, if you are moving across state lines or internationally, hiring a moving company is likely your best bet. Just remember, it is important to weigh your options to make sure you are making the right decision for your relocation.
In order to decide on hiring a moving company, it is best to figure out what your priorities are. You can start by asking yourself these questions:
1. How much stuff do you have? The more stuff you have, the more money it will cost you to move. Moving companies will charge you based on weight and distance for an interstate move. Local moves are typically charged by the hour. If you want to rent a moving vehicle, the bigger the truck, the more money you will spend; and don’t forget about the mileage allotment for rentals.
2. How far away are you moving? If you are moving a short distance, long distance, or you don’t want to mess around with the hassle of a DIY move you might want to leave it to the pros. it might be best to rent a truck. But, if you are moving out of state, the rental may go up for a one-way rental. Oh, and remember, you’ll need to pay for gas and mileage as well. You may find a moving company can provide a better deal.
Depending on how you’ve answered the questions above, you may find that moving on your own may end up actually costing more than hiring a moving company. Just remember to do your research and check out at least three moving companies before deciding.
Jon Huser
