4 Indicators You Might Be Overspending on a Moving Company in NYC

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Moving to a new home, especially in a bustling city like NYC, can be one of life’s most demanding experiences. In fact, a survey by Move.org found that 38% of people believe moving is more stressful than a breakup. Aside from the emotional toll of leaving behind memories and adjusting to a new place, the financial strain of hiring movers can add to the pressure. Without careful planning, you might end up spending more than necessary, making the experience even more challenging.

In New York, moving expenses can vary significantly. Data from Angi shows that costs typically range from $884 to $2,569, with a national average of $1,713. For those moving within NYC, staying closer to the lower end of this range could make a noticeable difference to your budget.

1. You’re Given a Generic Quote

Choosing a flat-rate moving company in New York isn’t necessarily a bad idea. It can offer simplicity and, in some cases, be more affordable than paying by the hour. However, the flat rate should reflect your specific circumstances. If a moving company offers a blanket price without asking about details such as the size of your NYC apartment or whether you have heavy or bulky items, you could be overpaying. This is especially true if you’re a minimalist with only a few items to move.

“Moving costs vary depending on the size of your home, your location, and the specific services you select,” notes Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi.

2. They Skip the In-Person Estimate

While the convenience of online quotes might seem appealing, skipping an in-person assessment can lead to inaccurate pricing. For example, you might live in a two-bedroom apartment in New York but only plan to take a few pieces of furniture and some boxes, similar to what’s typical for a one-bedroom move. Allowing movers to visit your NYC home and assess your belongings ensures you’re quoted a fair price.

“Once you have a ballpark figure in mind, schedule in-person estimates with a few local moving companies,” advises Hicks. “Getting multiple quotes is always a good idea to make sure you’re paying a reasonable rate.”

3. Extra Fees Start Piling Up

We’ve all seen great deals that lose their appeal once unexpected fees are added. This is especially common in NYC, where additional costs like parking permits, tolls, and extra mileage within the city can quickly add up. Ask upfront about potential fees, such as insurance charges or surcharges for navigating tight New York streets. Then compare the overall cost. Sometimes, a company with a higher base rate but fewer additional fees may turn out to be more affordable.

4. They Charge Hourly, but Reviews Suggest They Work Slowly

Hourly rates can sometimes be more cost-effective than flat rates, particularly if you don’t have many items or heavy furniture to move. However, in a fast-paced city like New York, efficiency is key.

Check reviews carefully to ensure the movers are known for working quickly and effectively. Some companies may offer a low hourly rate but operate slowly, potentially driving up the final cost.

In NYC, where time is money, choosing movers with a higher hourly rate but a reputation for speed and reliability may save you more in the long run.

Balance Cost with Quality

When moving in New York, don’t base your decision solely on price. Researching customer reviews is essential to ensure you’re hiring a trustworthy company. The cheapest option may result in damaged belongings, costing you more in the long run. Additionally, disreputable companies in NYC might use unethical tactics, such as holding your items hostage for additional payments. While these actions can be illegal, dealing with them can add unnecessary stress.

To avoid such scenarios, paying a bit more for a highly rated, reputable company is often a wise investment. Movers Not Shakers, known as one of the best movers in NYC, combines affordability with outstanding service, ensuring your move is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

“Compromising on quality is rarely a good decision,” says Hicks. “Movers are responsible for ensuring your belongings are safe during transit, so reliability is key.”

If you’re on a budget and moving in NYC, Hicks suggests a hybrid approach. “Consider doing part of the move yourself and hiring professionals for specific tasks, like loading, unloading, or transportation,” she adds.