DIY vs. Full Service Movers | Bayshore Moving & Storage

For years, many people have believed that moving yourself, also referred to as DYI is a much less expensive process than hiring an experienced moving company. However, when consumers actually take the time to compare the final costs of a DYI move vs. a full service company, they are pleasantly surprised to learn how economical the services of a professional mover like Bayshore Moving & Storage can be.

DIY vs. Full Service Moving – Comparing The True Costs

Recent moving industry surveys have shown that the costs involved in moving yourself vs. hiring a full-service moving company are not only extremely comparable but also 80% of consumers indicate that they would not want to experience another DYI move in the future.

Let’s look at the actual expenses involved in a DYI move.

The Cost Of Your Time

Many DIY movers spend countless hours packing, finding boxes and supplies, arranging for the truck and completing many other tasks that are needed to move. In fact, some DYI movers will actually use vacation time from work getting ready to relocate, so the hourly value of being paid while at home must be taken into account when determining the actual cost of a DYI moving project.

The Truck

Many well-known DYI moving companies offer their customers what seems to be a reasonable daily rate for the use of their moving trucks. However, what some consumers forget to keep in mind is that usually in addition to the daily rental fee, there is also a per-mile charge, (average 59 cents to $1.00 per mile), that can add up very fast. The quotation from a professional moving company will always include all charges related to the truck, so you do not have to worry about any extra or surprise expenses.

Boxes, Pads & Dollies

In addition to the cost of purchasing boxes, it is easy to overlook the fact that DYI movers are going to need other equipment, such as furniture pads and dollies. These items are normally not included with the truck rental, so they will be an additional cost. Full-service movers not only provide these items but they are also included in the moving charges.

Fuel For The Truck

In addition to the cost of renting a moving truck equipped with pads and dollies, DYI movers also have to budget for the expense of gasoline or diesel fuel. Fully loaded moving trucks are not known for their great fuel economy, so a DYI mover might be surprised at how much more additional expense will be incurred by having to return a truck with a full tank. Through the services of a professional mover, all fuel costs are included as a part of your quotation.

Truck Insurance

Moving truck rental agencies all require that liability insurance be carried on the vehicle while you are using it. In addition, the truck itself must also be protected against physical damage. DYI rental companies can sell you temporary insurance to cover these risks, but it can be very expensive.

A DYI mover’s own auto insurance may cover the truck in some capacity, so it is important to determine this prior to the move. If your insurance company won’t insure the truck during the move, you will need to purchase coverage from the rental agency. When you work with a professional moving company, all insurance is taken care of automatically, including protection for your personal belongings during the moving process.

Recent moving industry statistics show that hiring a professional mover is only an increase in cost of about 2-7% (depending on the type of move and distance), as compared to managing an entire DYI project yourself. In addition, when asked if they would be willing to pay 2 to 7 cents more for every dollar of moving expense incurred in order to hire a professional mover, 8 out of 10 survey respondents indicated that it would be well worth it.