Common Hidden Costs That Catch People Off Guard

Packing Materials and Supplies

• Quality boxes: $2-5 each (you’ll need 20-40 for a typical home)
• Bubble wrap: $25-50 per roll
• Packing paper: $30-60 per bundle
• Specialty boxes (wardrobe, dish packs): $8-15 each
• Tape, markers, labels: $20-40 total

Last-Minute Packing Services

• Emergency packing: $25-40 per hour per packer
• Rush charges for same-day packing requests
• Unpacking services at destination

Specialty Item Fees

• Piano moving: $200-800 depending on type and distance
• Hot tub or pool table: $300-600
• Artwork and antiques: $100-500
• Wine collections: $150-300

Pro Tip: Many people underestimate how much packing material they’ll need. A good rule of thumb is one medium box per room, plus specialty boxes for dishes, clothes, and books. When in doubt, order more—leftover boxes can usually be returned.

Access and Distance Charges

These sneaky fees can add hundreds to your final bill if you’re not prepared.

Long Carry Charges

• Fees when movers can’t park within 50-100 feet of your door
• Typical charge: $50-150 per 50 feet
• Common in urban areas, gated communities, or apartment complexes

Stair Charges

• Additional fees for moves involving stairs
• Typically $25-50 per flight for local moves
• Can apply to both pickup and delivery locations

Elevator Fees

• Some buildings charge for elevator use during moves
• Building may require reservations and certificates of insurance
• Fees range from $50-200 depending on building policies

Pro Tip: Walk your mover through access challenges during the initial estimate. At Baltic Movers, we always conduct thorough site assessments to avoid surprise charges on moving day.

Timing-Related Cost Factors

When you move can significantly impact your final bill.

Peak Season Premiums (Summer Months)

• 20-30% higher rates during June-August
• Limited availability means less negotiating power
• Weekend moves typically cost 10-20% more

Rush Charges

• Last-minute bookings (less than 2 weeks notice): 15-25% premium
• Same-week moves may incur additional rush fees
• Holiday period moves command premium pricing

Overtime and Delays

• Moves extending beyond estimated time may incur overtime charges
• Traffic delays, especially in Orlando, can extend moving time
• Unprepared customers can cause delays and additional costs

Pro Tip: Book your move at least 4-6 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability. If you have flexibility, consider moving on weekdays or during off-peak months for significant savings.

Insurance and Protection Costs

Basic moving insurance often provides minimal coverage, leaving you vulnerable to losses.

Basic Liability Coverage

• Typically included: $0.60 per pound of damaged items
• Your 50-pound flat screen TV = $30 maximum coverage
• Essentially provides no meaningful protection for valuable items

Full Value Protection

• Costs 1-2% of your shipment’s declared value
• Provides replacement cost coverage for damaged items
• Worth considering for moves with valuable belongings

Third-Party Insurance

• Often more comprehensive than mover-provided options
• May be more cost-effective for high-value shipments
• Research options before moving day

Pro Tip: Don’t wait until moving day to think about insurance. Review your options during the booking process and make sure you understand exactly what’s covered under different plans.

The True Cost of DIY vs. Professional Moving

Many people consider DIY moving to save money, but hidden costs can quickly eliminate any savings.

DIY Moving “Hidden” Expenses:

• Truck rental: $30-300 per day plus mileage
• Gas (trucks get 6-10 mpg): $50-200+ depending on distance
• Equipment rental (dollies, straps): $40-100
• Packing materials: $100-300
• Food and drinks for helpers: $50-150
• Potential injury or damage costs: $500-5,000+

Professional Moving Value:

• Experienced handling reduces damage risk
• Insurance coverage included
• No equipment rental needed
• Time savings (professionals work much faster)
• Reduced physical strain and injury risk

Pro Tip: When comparing costs, factor in your time at your hourly wage rate. Professional movers typically complete moves 2-3 times faster than DIY attempts, often making professional service more economical than it initially appears.

Questions to Ask for Transparent Pricing

Avoid surprise costs by asking these specific questions when getting moving quotes:

About Fees and Charges:

• What circumstances trigger additional charges?
• How do you handle access difficulties or delays?
• What’s your policy on overtime charges?
• Are there any fees not included in this estimate?

About Insurance:

• What does basic coverage actually protect?
• What are my options for additional coverage?
• How do you handle damage claims?

About Timing:

• What’s your policy if the move takes longer than estimated?
• How do weather delays affect pricing?
• What constitutes a “rush” move requiring additional fees?

Pro Tip: Reputable companies like Baltic Movers welcome these questions and provide clear, detailed answers. Be wary of any company that seems evasive about pricing details or additional fees.

Baltic Movers’ Commitment to Transparent Pricing

At Baltic Movers, we believe in honest, upfront pricing with no hidden surprises. Our detailed estimates clearly outline all potential charges, and we work with you to understand your specific needs and budget constraints.

We provide written estimates that include all likely costs, explain our policies clearly, and communicate proactively about any changes that might affect your final bill. Our goal is to ensure your move stays within budget while providing exceptional service.

Ready for a transparent, honest moving quote? Contact Baltic Movers today for a detailed estimate that includes all potential costs. We’ll help you plan a budget that covers everything you need for a successful move—with no unpleasant surprises.