Moving can quickly become expensive, especially if you don't understand how moving quotes are calculated. Whether you are single or a parent with children, moving to France or abroad involves many costs, but there are ways to optimize them. In this article, we will detail what a moving quote includes, how to compare offers and how to reduce your moving bill.
What does a mover quote contain?
A moving quote may seem complex at first glance, but it generally follows a fairly simple structure. Understanding the elements that make it up is essential to knowing where you can save money.
The basic elements of a moving quote
A moving quote contains several standard elements that directly influence the total cost. Here are the main lines that you will find on your quote:
- Volume to move : Estimated in cubic meters, it determines the quantity of goods that the mover must transport. The larger the volume, the higher the quote will be, as this requires a larger vehicle or multiple trips.
- The distance to travel : Whether you are moving within the same city or to the other side of France, distance plays a key role in setting the price. On the other hand, if you move abroad, additional costs related to customs duties or sea or air transport may be added.
- Services included : Movers offer different services, such as packing, dismantling and reassembling furniture, and protecting fragile items. Each of these services, offered by AMDT, simplifies your move but adds an additional cost
Factors that influence the cost of a quote
Besides the basics, several other factors can affect your total quote:
- Moving period : Moving in high season (during school holidays or summer) costs more because demand is high. If you can move outside of these periods, you could benefit from lower rates.
- Access to housing : If your old or new home is difficult to access (no elevator, narrow street, etc.), this can increase the cost. Additional charges may apply for the use of furniture lifts or for the mobilization of an additional team.
Compare quotes: national vs international moving
It is important to understand the differences between a quote for moving within France and a quote for moving abroad, as the costs and items included will not be the same.
The specifics of a quote for a move to France
When you move to France, the quote is mainly influenced by the distance and the volume to be transported. You may incur additional charges for optional services such as:
- Packing and unpacking your belongings : If you choose to let the movers take care of the packing, it saves you work, but it will also increase the overall cost.
- Handling and access to accommodation : As mentioned above, if access to your accommodation (old and new) is complicated, this can influence the prices.
Additional things to check for an international move
Moving internationally often involves higher costs due to distance and customs formalities. Here are some specific elements to take into account for an international quote:
- Sea or air shipping costs : Shipping is typically used for long distance international moves and charged based on volume. Air transport is faster, but much more expensive.
- Customs taxes : Some countries impose taxes on the importation of personal goods. These costs must be included in your quote, or at least anticipated to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Optional moving services : what to choose ?
The additional services offered by movers are tempting, but they come at a cost. Depending on your budget, you may choose to take on certain tasks yourself to save money.
Packing, disassembly and reassembly of furniture
If you want the mover to take care of all stages of the move, this includes packing your belongings, as well as dismantling and reassembling furniture. Although this saves you time and hassle, these services significantly increase the total cost of the move. To reduce costs, you can choose to do certain tasks yourself, such as packing your boxes or dismantling furniture that you can handle.
The cost of furniture storage and when to use it
If you need to store your belongings before moving into your new home, furniture storage service can be a practical option. This service is particularly useful if you are moving abroad and cannot take all your belongings immediately.
Storage prices vary depending on the size of the space needed and the duration of storage. However, if you are planning a temporary move or are waiting to finalize accommodation, this can be an essential solution to include in your budget.
Financial aid and subsidies for moving
There are several financial aids that can reduce the cost of your move, depending on your personal and professional situation.
Aid for professional mobility
If your move is linked to a professional transfer, you may be able to benefit from mobility assistance. For example, some employers offer to cover part of the moving costs, particularly if the transfer is imposed. It is important to find out about the assistance available from your company.
In France, specific aid such as the CAF moving bonus are also available for large families. This assistance is granted under certain conditions, in particular if you have at least three children and move following the arrival of a new child.
Moving assistance for large families and military personnel
Military personnel often benefit from specific bonuses to cover part of their moving costs, particularly in the event of a transfer. If you are concerned, it is advisable to consult the assistance options available from military institutions to minimize the costs associated with your move.
Understanding a mover's quote is essential to controlling your moving budget, whether to stay in France or go abroad. By identifying the elements that influence the cost, choosing the services adapted to your needs and optimizing certain aspects (period, volume, services), you can achieve significant savings. In addition, by finding out about financial aid, you will be better prepared to face this big change in a calm and economical manner.
