What Do Moving Companies Include and What Will Cost You More

Moving can be stressful enough, and the last thing you need is surprise costs or vague fees that push you over budget. Some moving companies offer rock-bottom rates, but the real question is what’s included and what’s quietly added on later. From packing to furniture disassembly to storage, costs can add up fast if you’re not paying attention. We break down what moving companies typically include and how to avoid extra charges.

What Do Moving Companies Include in a Standard Move?

Most moving companies take care of the basics: loading your belongings, transporting them, and unloading at your new place. They supply the truck, a trained crew, and standard equipment like blankets, straps, and dollies. For short local moves, charges are usually hourly. For long-distance jobs, cross country moving companies typically price based on weight or volume, plus distance. Services like packing or storage are usually extra.

What Services Cost More?

Plenty of things that feel like part of a typical move aren’t actually included. If you’re wondering do moving companies pack for you, they do, but it’s not free. Full or partial packing, plus materials like boxes and tape, add to the total. Furniture disassembly is sometimes included but often charged per item, especially if reassembly is expected at your new home. Can moving companies store your stuff? Yes, but storage is another separate cost, especially if it’s climate-controlled or needed for more than a few days.

How Do Moving Companies Charge for Local and Long-Distance Moves?

How do moving companies charge? That depends on your move. Local moving companies usually bill by the hour, factoring in crew size and job length. Long-distance and interstate movers shift to weight- or volume-based pricing, with mileage and timing added in. You might also see fees for fuel, tolls or expedited service. To avoid surprises, ask for a written quote and check whether it’s binding. Non-binding estimates can go up on move day if the load is heavier than expected or takes longer than planned.

Packing, Furniture, Storage: Optional, but Often Necessary

Packing services can save you time, especially if you’re short on help or need to be out quickly. But they’re not standard. If you’re hiring movers to pack, expect to pay for both the labor and the supplies. If you are thinking, “do moving companies disassemble furniture?” The answer is, it is available, but not always included. Most crews will take apart beds or large tables on request, though reassembly may cost more. If your timeline doesn’t line up, and you need storage, some moving companies can hold your items in secure facilities, either short-term or long-term. Always ask how it’s priced and whether it’s on-site or at a third-party location.

Do You Tip Moving Companies?

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but in most places it’s the norm. If you’re asking, “do you tip moving companies?”, the simple answer is yes. This is especially true if the crew is careful, efficient or dealing with stairs, bad weather or heavy items. A typical range is $20–$50 per mover, or around 5 to 10 percent of the total cost. Most people tip in cash, but some companies allow tips through digital payments.

Common Problems People Miss (Until It’s Too Late)

Plenty of people run into the same issues when booking movers. Cancellation policies can be strict. Many companies keep your deposit or charge a fee if you cancel on short notice. Delivery windows, especially with cross-country moving companies, can be vague. Some movers offer delivery “within a week” with no compensation if they’re late. Insurance is another blind spot. Most companies include only basic liability, which covers a small portion of your item’s value. If you want full protection, you’ll need to pay for it and document your inventory. Another issue is subcontracting. Some movers assign your job to a different crew entirely. Always ask who’s doing the actual work.

What Happens If Something Gets Damaged or Goes Missing?

Most moving companies offer minimal default coverage (often just 60 cents per pound), which isn’t much if something expensive breaks. This is often called valuation coverage. To get full replacement value, you’ll need to pay for upgraded insurance, and you may have to list high-value items in advance. If something is lost or damaged, take photos, keep your paperwork, and file a claim quickly. Most companies have a set time window, and without proper documentation, you may get denied or delayed.

Red Flags to Watch When Hiring Movers

Watch out for movers that only accept cash, demand large deposits upfront or avoid putting estimates in writing. A reputable company will give you a detailed quote, clearly list what’s included, and explain how much do moving companies charge for any add-ons. Be cautious if the contract is vague, has blank sections or doesn’t specify pricing and terms. For long-distance moves, ask for the company’s USDOT number and verify it online. Avoid companies that subcontract without disclosure or can’t tell you what do moving companies do. Evasive answers, pushy sales tactics, or a lack of basic information are all signs it’s time to move on.

At REMAX, we help people buy and sell homes with clear advice and experienced local agents. From first viewings to final paperwork, we make the process straightforward and less stressful.