MOVE YOURSELF OR FIND A MOVER?
Moving Yourself, or getting friends and family to help you, is typically
an option chosen by customers looking for the cheapest moving option. Price
alone is the primary reason why many people choose to move themselves, although
some customers don't feel very comfortable letting movers handle their
possessions.
Prices for truck rental vary depending upon location and time of the
year. Truck rental rates are typically higher during peak season, which runs
from May to September. The rental charge you are quoted includes a deposit
and enough free miles to complete your move. However, the charge does not
include taxes or other moving equipment and you will be required to return the
vehicle with a full tank of gas.
To truly assess the cost advantage of moving yourself, a few factors
should be taken into account aside from the costs of truck rental. For
starters, many people have a difficult time maneuvering a large truck that they
have never driven before. Fender benders during attempts to parallel park the
vehicle are not uncommon. Secondly, make sure you have an extra person
available with you if you cannot get a spot in front of the building.
Double-parking your moving truck is an easy way to get an expensive parking
ticket. Also please be aware that you will have to provide your own dollies,
pads so you don't scratch your furniture, and other moving equipment.
Then there are disadvantages during the actual move. If you, or any of
your friends, get injured moving that heavy couch down the steps, you are
responsible. Hopefully you have good friends and they won't sue you. If you
cause any damages moving out of an apartment building or a rented apartment,
you are also responsible. Any items damaged or broken items are completely
your responsibility.
Lastly, the time you spend moving, including picking up the truck and
dropping the truck off, can really add up. Many licensed movers will even
pack and unpack for you. This will be your responsibility as well. If time
is money, you could be saving very little by doing this job yourself. The size of your job and the quotes you receive from movers determine your actual savings. As with any decision, there are positives and negatives. Consider the risks and rewards and decide what is best for you.
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