6 Hidden Moving Fees

Ask questions to unearth hidden costs.

Related To:

Even legitimate movers might not spill all the costs unless you ask. To get an accurate picture of your total, find out if the following fees will apply: 

Packing or disconnecting fees. Even if you're paying for your movers to pack up your goods, some movers will charge extra if it's more complicated than box-and-carry. As each company gives you its estimate, ask if it will charge extra to disassemble furniture or disconnect gas lines. If you're filling the boxes yourself, the company may also charge if they decide your cartons need to be repacked to make the trip trouble-free. 

Extra fees for unusually heavy items. Companies often need extra manpower or equipment to move weighty items like grand pianos, hot tubs, all terrain vehicles or appliances. Make sure your company includes the heavy lifting fees in the estimate so the movers are prepared for the extra pounds and you're prepared for the final bill. 

Additional cost for an inconvenient location. If you're moving to or from a seventh-floor apartment, the company may charge extra for all that additional cardio. More fees might also apply if movers can't reach your home because of a narrow driveway or natural obstacle. Ask if your location will cost you extra when the estimator is at your home. 

A thumb-twiddling fee. Besides leaving you frazzled and disorganized, waiting till the last minute to pack can also cost you money. If you're packing up yourself, you'll need to be done before the movers arrive. Any extra time they spend boxing up your possessions will be billed at the hourly fee. Also, try to arrive at your new home before the moving truck. They may bill you while they wait for your arrival. 

If you're moving locally, ask if you can get a larger truck for the same rate. Some local companies charge the same hourly rate for a 50-foot van and a 12-foot van. Make sure your estimator has allowed for plenty of empty space for incidentals in the van. If you're being charged by the hour, double trips will tack unexpected fees onto your move. 

You'll need money to move yourself, too. Don't forget to include the costs to get yourself from point A to point B in the budget. If you're traveling a long distance, you may need a place to stay while your belongings are en route. And don't forget refreshments for your friends, family and movers! 

Next Up

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying a Home in Foreclosure

Purchasing a foreclosed home can mean getting a bargain, but there are potential pitfalls too.

5 Types of Neighbors and How to Handle Them

You may love your house, but getting stuck with bad neighbors may have you thinking about putting up a for-sale sign. Here are some tips on dealing with rude, sloppy or nosy neighbors, and even those mean ones with spite houses.

6 Things to Know Before Buying a New Home

Avoid the top six mistakes new homebuyers make.

Are You Ready for a Bigger House?

When your family (or income) has outgrown your home, it's time to go bigger and better.

How to Write Your Vision of Home

Your "Vision of Home" statement is not simply a vision of a house, but a statement describing the desired state of your life after you buy your home. Here's how to draft the vision of your dream house.

4 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make

Learn what mistakes to avoid after you purchase your first home.

Buyers: What to Do When You Lose Your Job While In Escrow

You're in the middle of buying a home when the dreaded pink slip arrives. Find out how one couple handled the unwelcome turn of events.

Deal Or No Deal

When selling your home, it pays to look at the complete financial picture so you are ready to deal. Make a list of the costs of selling your house with these useful tips to guide you.

How to Deduct Points From a Refinanced Mortgage or Loan for a Second Home

Some of the best perks of owning a home are the tax breaks. Know what expenses you can deduct, and understand how new laws affect you. If you're currently renting, consider the tax advantages of homeownership. This may be the time to buy a home.

Increase Your Home's Value With Mature Trees

Well-maintained yards can fetch a higher price and quicker sale.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

No Demo Reno

10am | 9c

No Demo Reno

11am | 10c

Good Bones

12pm | 11c

Good Bones

1pm | 12c

Good Bones

2pm | 1c

Good Bones

3pm | 2c

Good Bones

4pm | 3c
On Tonight
On Tonight

Unsellable Houses

8pm | 7c

House Hunters

10pm | 9c

House Hunters

10:31pm | 9:31c

House Hunters

11pm | 10c

House Hunters

11:30pm | 10:30c

Building Roots

12am | 11c

House Hunters

1am | 12c

House Hunters

1:30am | 12:30c

Unsellable Houses

2:59am | 1:59c

House Hunters

4:30am | 3:30c

House Hunters

5:30am | 4:30c

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.