When arranging an interprovincial or long-distance move, hiring a moving and storage company can simplify logistics substantially.
Professional movers transport your belongings securely to a climate-controlled storage facility during the transition between homes.
However, storage rates and fee structures vary greatly between companies. This article reveals how to accurately compare quotes and avoid surprise charges when selecting a storage provider.
Get Itemized Quotes from Multiple Companies
Firstly, when researching options, get comprehensive itemized quotes from at least three or four moving/storage firms before deciding.
Vague verbal estimates leave wiggle room for unforeseen costs. Reputable companies provide fixed quotes listing every anticipated fee in writing.
Thoroughly question representatives about their rate structures regarding transportation, monthly storage fees per cubic foot, loading/unloading labour, insurance, packing supplies, delivery charges, fuel fees and more. Compare quotes side-by-side to identify discrepancies.
Calculate Realistic Storage Space Required
When assessing the optimal storage space needed, calculate totals carefully considering the dimensions of all items, accounting for access space needed around furniture for loading/unloading.
Companies charge by volume, so underestimating square footage required leads to ongoing overage fees. Know exactly what you’ll be storing, measure furniture, create an itemized list, and determine space realistically.
Watch For Rate Hikes After Promotional Periods
Additionally, certain firms offer discounted promotional rates for the first few months to attract business, then jack up prices afterwards unexpectedly once items are stored.
Get clear data on permanent long-term prices per month after any promotions expire to avoid major budget hits down the road. Read the fine print!
Confirm Pricing for Extra Services Upfront
Moreover, clarify costs for supplementary services upfront so they’re factored into initial quotes, rather than being billed individually later at higher à la carte rates. These extras include:
Packing/unpacking assistance
Providing packing supplies
Securing specialty items like safes or pianos
Inventory documentation
Interim access for stored items
Delivery/collection from storage facility
Watch For Fuel Surcharges and Tax Add-Ons
Likewise, fuel surcharges and taxes tack on hidden costs. Fuel fees get passed onto consumers and fluctuate monthly depending on gas prices. Find out if fuel costs are firmly fixed or variable.
Additionally, ask whether taxes like GST or PST are incorporated into quoted rates or if they’ll be added on afterwards. Define all surcharges ahead of time.
Define Liability for Inventory Discrepancies
Furthermore, clearly delineate liability for any inventory discrepancies if belongings go missing or get damaged in storage.
Spell out documentation processes, security protocols for tracing issues, and exact compensation formulas. Don’t get saddled with replacement costs if windows of accountability are vague.
Read All Terms and Get Quotes Adjusted
Carefully read all contractual terms with a fine-tooth comb before signing agreements.
Red flag clauses that allow companies to make unilateral after-the-fact rate changes must get amended or removed.
If new surprising charges appear, require them to provide updated quotes adjusted to original amounts promised despite terms dictating otherwise. Don’t tolerate bait-and-switch tactics.
By scrutinizing all quotes thoroughly, negotiating adjustments for clarity, and confirming final tallies in your budget, you can avoid excessive unexpected storage fees.
Ask targeted questions, calculate required capacity precisely, and contrast rates definitively to make the soundest choice. Eliminate those hidden surprises!
Comments