How to Negotiate with Moving Companies for a Better Deal
Posted Jun 13th, 2025
Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also be expensive. Between packing, truck rentals, and hiring movers, the costs can add up fast. The good news is—you don’t have to pay full price if you know how to negotiate with moving companies.
Just like shopping for a car or phone plan, you can ask questions, compare prices, and even get a better deal if you know what to say. In this blog, we’ll walk you through simple tips to help you save money when working with movers, written in clear, easy English.
1. Start Early and Shop Around
The first step is to start looking for moving companies early. Don’t wait until the last minute. The sooner you begin, the more options you’ll have.
Contact at least 3 to 5 moving companies and ask for a quote. Make sure each company gives you an estimate based on the same services, so you can compare them fairly.
Tip: Ask for an in-home or video estimate, not just over the phone. This gives you a more accurate price and helps avoid surprise charges later.
2. Know What You Need (and What You Don’t)
Some movers offer full-service packages, including packing, loading, unloading, and even unpacking. That’s great—but also expensive.
If you’re on a budget, think about what you can do yourself. For example:
- Can you pack your boxes?
- Do you need furniture assembly?
- Can you move small items yourself?
Tell the movers exactly what you need and ask if removing some services can lower the price. Most of the time, it can!
3. Ask About Discounts
Many people don’t know that moving companies often offer discounts, but only if you ask!
Here are a few common discounts:
✅ Military or student discount
✅ Senior citizen discount
✅ Off-season discount (winter or weekdays)
✅ Cash payment discount
Say something like:
“Do you offer any discounts that I might qualify for?”
It never hurts to ask—you might save a lot!
4. Be Flexible with Your Moving Date
Moving companies charge more during busy times, like weekends or the end of the month. If you can move on a weekday or during the middle of the month, you may get a better deal.
Ask this question:
“Is there a cheaper rate if I move on a weekday instead of a weekend?”
Movers often lower prices when they have fewer bookings. Being flexible can pay off.
5. Ask for a Price Match
Let’s say Company A gives you a better deal than Company B, but you prefer Company B. What can you do?
Ask for a price match.
Say: “Another company gave me a lower quote. Can you match it or offer something better?”
Many movers will either match the price or throw in extra services for free, like more boxes or a free hour of help.
6. Watch Out for Hidden Fees
Before signing any contract, ask the mover to explain all charges. Sometimes, the price you’re quoted doesn’t include things like:
- Fuel fees
- Stairs or long walk charges
- Heavy item fees (like pianos)
- Last-minute schedule changes
Get everything in writing so you’re not surprised by extra costs. A good question to ask is:
“Are there any extra charges I should know about?”
7. Pay Attention to the Fine Print
Always read the contract before you agree to anything. Look out for things like:
- Cancellation policies
- Hourly vs. flat-rate pricing
- What happens if your items are damaged
If something isn’t clear, ask questions. It’s better to understand now than to be upset later.
8. Use the Power of Silence
When you get a quote, don’t be too quick to say yes. Stay quiet for a few seconds after they tell you the price. Sometimes, the salesperson will offer you a better deal just to keep the conversation going.
You can also say:
“That’s a bit higher than I expected. Is there any way to lower the price?”
This puts pressure on them to work with you. It’s a polite and easy way to start a negotiation.
9. Bundle Services When Possible
Some moving companies also offer packing supplies, storage units, or cleaning services. Ask if they’ll give you a bundle deal if you use more than one of their services.
Say:
“If I use your company for both moving and storage, can you give me a discount?”
Bundling can save time and money—and makes your move smoother.
10. Be Polite but Confident
Negotiating doesn’t mean being rude. The key is to be respectful but firm. Show that you’re serious about hiring a mover—but you’re also smart and want the best deal.
Movers want your business, and they know customers talk. If you’re polite and easy to work with, they’ll be more likely to help you save money.
Final Thought
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank—when you compare companies, ask the right questions, and negotiate smartly, you can cut costs and feel more in control. Remember these key steps: get multiple quotes, ask about discounts, be flexible with your moving date, watch for hidden fees, and always get agreements in writing. The best part? You don’t need special skills to negotiate—just confidence and a few smart questions. So go ahead, pick up the phone and start asking. You’ve got this!
