Moves usually fall into one of two main categories:
• Local
• Long distance
One of two things typically trigger “long distance” classification:
• Distance traveled
• Crossing state lines or national boundaries
The classification is priced differently due to the regulations from the different jurisdictions and the estimated labor hours required. A move that crosses state lines require additional legal handling, proper insurance, and a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Move Classification Base on Distance
For moves within state, or intrastate, different movers have different policies centered around these threshold distances:
• Below 50 miles (typically deemed local)
• Between 50 miles and 100 miles (the lowest distance to trigger long distance for some companies)
• Over 100 miles (the middle distance to trigger long distance for additional companies)
• Over 400 miles (typically deemed long distance)
The cost driver for estimating local moves is typically labor; sometimes fuel charges may accrue as well. For a local move, driving 50 miles takes less than an hour one-way. Loading and unloading a truck of standard items typically takes less than a full working day. In other words, a local move can be completed within one workday.
Move Classification Base on Multiple Jurisdictions
For long distance moves, the amount and weight of items moved as well as the distance travelled are the basis for estimating quotes. In addition to different licensing and insurance requirements by state, administrative filings are more burdensome. Longer distances may require an overnight haul. Additionally, the empty returning moving truck does represent labor and opportunity costs for the moving company.
Moving companies will weigh the truck before and after loading your items. In other words, when the truck is empty will be compared to when it is fully loaded. You may elect to be present for such weighing. Linehaul charges depend on the weight of items and the mileage moved. If you downsize or eliminate items you do not need in your new location, you could realize savings.
In addition to the distance classification, other factors that impact a moving quote include:
• Residential versus commercial
• Rush jobs versus normal planning schedules
• Peak season versus off season
• Tolls
• Specialty items or oversized items
• Specialized instructions
In any scenario, the most expensive moves are the ones that are done poorly. They take too long, items are broken, mysterious charges materialize, or they never happen altogether. This can derail any subsequent activity that depends on a timely move – such as setting up your telecommunications after arrival. Avoid this aggravation and work with a reliable, reputable moving company that will get it right the first time – the way you expect, within budget and on time.
I had an excellent recent experience with McAvey Moving. I moved from White Plains to Manhattan. Their office staff is professional, courteous, and responds promptly to questions. The moving team that packed my apartment had years of experience and stored my items for several months. When it was time to move them to my new apartment, no items were missing or damaged. My new building has strict move-in hours, which McAvey Moving respected. Their move-in team quickly reassembled my apartment. I could not be happier with McAvey Moving and highly recommend them!
Joe G.
Now that you understand what prompts local vs long-distance moving and how each classification is quoted, contact our team for a free, no-obligation quote! Whether moving locally or long distance, remember, to move the right way, call McAvey.