By this point, we’ve all probably experienced the moving process at some time in our lives. Packing up an entire home or office, and then transporting all of the items to a new location. It’s a process that requires time and man power, as well as, an adequate moving vehicle. Although many of us think that we can handle a move ourselves, it’s best to hire professionals, who have tools and training that allows them to efficiently take care of a relocation. If and when you hire professionals though, you need to understand the different moving rates. This article will breakdown moving rates for local and long distance moves, so that you understand exactly what you will be paying for.

*It must be noted before we delve deep into the different facets of moving rates that all maximum and minimum tariffs for local and long distance moves in Encino are set by the California Public Utilities Commission. This organization regulates the moving industry, and ensures that companies do not charge unlawful rates.

Understanding Moving Rates: Long Distance Moves

Long distance movers’ rates are based on either the total weight of the shipment or the total number of cubic feet that the shipment takes up. Intrastate moves (moves within the same state) of over one hundred miles are charged by the total weight, while interstate moves of over one hundred miles are charged by the cubic feet total. For intrastate moves, the total weight of the empty truck is measured, and then the truck is weighed a second time once it’s full, to get an accurate reading on the weight of the shipment. The price per pound will vary from state to state, as well as, based on the distance that will be traveled during the move.

The cubic feet total for interstate moves is calculated by a moving industry formula, which accounts for the size of each individual object and box. Additionally, long distance moving companies can calculate a cubic foot total based on the amount of space taken up on a truck, which can only hold a limited amount of cubic feet. If you would like to calculate the cubic feet of one of your items, find the height, width, and depth of the object in question and then multiply those figures to find the total. Also, it should be noted that long distance moves are subject to a variety of accessorial charges, which will be outlined briefly below.

Accessorial and Special Services Charges for Long Distance Moves

• Packing/unpacking. Professional packing assistance is something you can pay for whether it’s a long distance or local move. Charges for this service will vary from company to company.

• Stairs/Elevator. If your movers have to go up or down more than one flight of stairs containing eight or more steps, then you will be charged a stair fee. The fee increases for each additional flight of stairs that is over eight steps. If they have to use an elevator to transport your items, you will be assessed an elevator fee.

• Long Carry. If your movers have to travel beyond seventy-five feet when carrying items from the load/unload destination to the truck, you will be assessed a long carry fee. For each additional fifty feet after that, the fee will increase.

• Shuttle. If the moving truck will not fit at your location, and the movers must use a shuttle to transport items from the truck to the unload destination, you will be assessed a shuttle fee.

• Storage/Extra Stop. If at any time during the move, the moving company must store your items (for an hour, for a day, whatever it may be) you will be assessed a storage fee. This fee will vary depending on the company and the amount of time the items need to be stored. If the moving company must unload at more than one destination, then you will be assessed an extra stop fee for each additional stop.

• Dedicated Truck/Expedited Delivery. If you would like your items to travel alone on the truck, making no other stops along the way, then you will be assessed a dedicated truck fee. Most companies have a two thousand cubic foot minimum for the dedicated truck service. If you want your stuff to arrive on a specific date, then you will be assessed an expedited delivery fee. This service provides the convenience of having the same crew handle the loading and unloading of all belongings.

Understanding Moving Rates: Local Moves

Local moves in Encino and in the state of California are based on a three hour time minimum and an hourly rate. This rate, which varies from company to company while falling within the maximum and minimum tariff allowed, usually covers the use of a truck and can increase or decrease based on the number of laborers that you will need. Traditionally in Encino, the basic moving package includes two professional movers and a truck. Additional time beyond the three hour minimum is pro-rated, so that you only pay for the time that movers are there.

In addition to the three hour minimum, companies will assess a double-drive time fee for all local moves. This is a state-mandated fee, which provides a verifiable driving charge to protect both the company and customer. With double-drive time, moving companies are compensated for fuel and driving costs, while customers have an exact distance and time that they are being charged for and which can be verified to ensure that no unlawful fees are charged (this prevents moving companies from charging whatever they want for fuel and driving time). Other fees assessed for local moves include packing services, materials, and any special services (bulky items, piano crating, pool table crating, etc.).

Now that you have a better understanding of moving rates, you’re ready to begin the process of getting quotes. Once you've found a mover, remember that you want to get on-site estimates, because this gets you a binding, written moving quote, which protects you from unexpected or hidden fees and costs.

Also, once you’ve found an Encino moving company, make sure that you verify their licensing and insurance information with the California Public Utilities Commission. Good luck with your next move!