Extra Charges On Your Moving Bill - What Do They Mean?

Find Out What Service Fees You Might Be Responsible For

By Diane Schmidt, About.com Guide

Whenever you book a moving company make sure you understand the extent of the additional charges that might be billed to you. These moving company fees depend on the conditions surrounding your move. I personally found this out the hard way when an apartment I was moving from had double-booked the parking lot and since my mover arrived after another tenant's moving company, I ended up paying a several extra charges in order for my goods to be moved that day. So, before you book, find out which charges might be applicable for both your move from and to your new home then get a quote and make sure that quote holds.

Accessorial Charges

Some moving companies lump all extra fees that do not fall under any of the following listings and call them "Accessorial Charges". These charges may include packing or unpacking services, extra pick-ups at a storage facility or disassembling furniture. To avoid this charge, make sure you’re ready for the movers before they arrive.

Advanced Charges

These are fees for services provided by a professional other than the mover and can include a craftsman, or other third-party at your request (piano mover, appliance preparation). If these services are arranged through the moving company, the charges are billed to the mover who in turns, bills you.

Appliance Service

This is a fee that is sometimes charged if the mover needs to prepare the major appliances for moving, which includes disconnecting at the original residence then reconnecting at your new home. In most cases, appliances included are washers, dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators.

If you’re concerned about the safe transport of your major appliances, ask your mover if they are qualified to prepare them for moving. If not, they can usually recommend you to someone who can provide this service for you.

Auxiliary Service

An auxiliary service charge refers to an extra fee that is rated per hour should the move be delayed because your goods need to be transferred to another truck in order to complete the move. As previously mentioned, this can happen if you don't have adequate parking or if you live in a home that is not accessible by a large moving truck (a long narrow driveway). This means that the moving company has to transfer your goods to a smaller truck then to your home (or from your home).

Avoid these extra fees by ensuring the moving truck can park close enough and that nothing is blocking the truck's access. If you're unsure of accessibility, call the mover first and ask questions that pertain directly to your move, such as the appropriate distance from your home or building's entrance to the truck.

Customs Clearance

There are always custom fees associated with international moves, however, the mover might also charge you for clearing your goods through customs. Many international movers include this fee in their overall cost already, but ask, just in case. If it is included, make sure this is clearly marked on your estimate.

You’ll also need to check with the country you're moving to for details on what documents you will need and the import costs involved. Your international mover should also be able to provide you with more information on regulations and procedures surrounding the entry of your household belongings into another country.

Elevator Carry

If you live in a walk-up apartment or high-rise condo, you might be charged an additional fee for the moving company to transport your goods in an elevator either at the pickup point or destination. To ensure the movers are aware of your particular moving needs, let them know if an elevator will be part of the move. Keep in mind that not all moving companies charge for this service, and particular those that are charging you by the hour (if doing a local move) but many do. It does take longer and more energy to load an elevator and unload it again than it does to move directly from a home to the truck, so the fee is not unexpected.

Expedited Service

If you want a guaranteed date of arrival, then you may be charged a higher minimum rate. The best way to avoid this charge is to be flexible on the move in date. Most people can work around a move in date and if you pack your essentials and take them with you, you should be able to survive for a few days or week without your household goods.

Flight Charge

Like the elevator carry charge, flight charge is a fee for carrying items up or down flights of stairs either at the place of origin or at the destination. For example, a third-floor residence would equal two flights since the mover begins on the first floor. If there are elevators available, and is large enough to transport your goods, there should be no flight charge, however an elevator charge may apply. Again, ask your mover.

Linehaul Charges

This is a basic charge for a long distance move, which is calculated by mileage and weight of your shipment. Linehaul charges are usually on top of your initial estimate. Since moving companies provide you with a weight estimate and distance estimate prior to booking their service, they should be able to give you the cost of the linehaul charge. Ask upfront.

Source:  http://moving.about.com/od/movingcompanyfees/a/mover_fees.htm

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