There are a number of factors that determine the cost of moving services, including whether they’re hourly or flat-rate. It’s important to shop around for rates and service options before making a decision. You can also save money by planning ahead and streamlining your belongings before your move. For example, downsizing through garage sales or donating items to charity is an easy way to get rid of excess belongings before they’re loaded onto the truck.

Another way to reduce your costs is to move during the week instead of on the weekend. Movers are in high demand on the weekends, so they may charge more per hour than during the week. In addition, some companies charge different hourly rates for moves to the same city versus to a different city.

While it’s possible to find cheap movers near me, it’s best to choose a reputable company with a good track record. Ask for referrals from friends and family, and read online reviews. Watch out for overly positive or negative reviews, and look for companies with a high BBB rating.

Depending on the size of your move, it’s important to book your service in advance to secure the best price and ensure availability. Some movers offer online booking, which lets you see instant quotes without annoying spam. The booking process is simple and secure, and you’ll be connected to movers who are actually available on your moving date. You’ll also get access to transparent pricing, verified reviews, and up-to-date company info.

When hiring local movers, make sure you’re getting a comprehensive written estimate and that it specifies an hourly rate or a flat fee. The estimate should also include a breakdown of all charges, such as packing materials and transportation. Keep in mind that the more items you have to transport, the longer it will take to move them. You can reduce your costs by packing a few boxes, using storage units instead of trucks, or renting a storage facility for the duration of your move.

A good moving company should be able to balance speed and care, ensuring your belongings are safe for the trip. They should also have proper training and equipment for handling specialty items like pianos. The best movers can also handle the logistics of your move, such as scheduling, loading, and unloading.

In addition to offering full-service moves, this New York based moving company provides storage solutions, packing and unpacking, and a variety of other specialty services. Its reputation for excellent customer service and customizable packages make it a top choice for interstate and international moves as well. The company offers a free quote on its website and can handle any type of move. It also has a full inventory of quality packing materials to help you protect your belongings.