How moving charges are determined
Determining the cost of an inter-provincial move was much simpler a decade ago. Back then, all moving companies charged the same rate based on the total weight of the shipment and the distance of the move. These rates - or tariffs - were set by the federal government. Shipment tonnage was determined by weighing the truck before and after the goods were loaded. This amount was multiplied by a predetermined rate. Upon delivery, the driver was paid by cash or certified cheque. No matter who moved you, your cost was the same. Van lines competed on service quality alone.
Today, however, the industry has some flexibility in determining charges, depending on the specific needs of the customer. While tariffs still are determined by van lines in conjunction with the customer, moving companies can relate their charges more closely to their actual costs and prevailing market conditions. Prices, determined locally, can vary between different movers. Price, however, is only one factor to be considered by a prudent consumer.
As mentioned earlier, to determine a price that is fair, your Allied moving consultant must take a full and complete inventory of your possessions that you want moved. He or she will inspect your attic, basement, and garage, as well as anything you have in storage.
On a local move, your cost will most likely be based on an hourly rate and the amount of time it actually takes the movers to handle your shipment. On an inter-provincial shipment however, the cost still will be largely dependent on the weight of your shipment and the distance between origin and destination.
In either case, you should determine which items have outlived their usefulness, so that you don't pay for moving something that you don't really need. (There's no better time to clean out closets, drawers, attics, crawlspaces, etc., and get rid of those things that you no longer use.) Also make sure that your moving consultant is fully aware of what's not being moved. The savvy consumer will make these considerations carefully. (Pay careful attention to "Garage Sale Guidelines - One Way to Save Money on Your Move")
After taking into account everything that needs to be moved, as well as any special services that you may need (packing, for instance), your Allied moving consultant will prepare your estimate. Your final cost will be based on the actual weight of your shipment (plus the charges for any extra services).
Total Price Guarantee!
On an inter-provincial shipment, you also might be offered a binding estimate or firm price (The Allied "Total Price Guarantee"). This price is guaranteed - regardless of the actual weight of the items estimated. If, after receiving a binding estimate, you have any changes regarding special services needed or additional items to be moved, be sure to advise your Allied moving consultant of those changes prior to your moving day. Such changes are likely to affect the final cost of your move, and Allied has the right to void the binding estimate.
Again, in addition to shipping costs, you'll be charged for additional services such as packing, unpacking, appliance servicing (detachment and hook-up), etc. Also, if the van operator and his/her crew have to contend with an especially long distance or several flights of stairs when carrying your goods from your origin residence to the van or from the van into your new home at destination, there will be an additional labour fee for the extra effort required.
One final note regarding the price of your professional move: Remember that, as is the case with any product or service that you buy, you usually get what you pay for - and the lowest price doesn't always mean the best value. In selecting a professional mover, also consider such factors as reputation, reliability, performance record, claims settlement process and overall commitment to customer satisfaction.
Beware of the small independent mover; while they may be cheaper, they do not necessarily have the proper licenses or equipment to perform the service. By the way, some moving expenses are tax-deductible, so save receipts and check with your tax advisor for details.
Return to Residential Moving Guide
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