Moving Accessorial Charges
Moving Accessorial Charges Hide The Cruel Truth About What Movers Really Think Of You
Every Extra Effort From Your Movers Translates to Eye-Watering Accessorial Charges
Moving accessorial charges are extra fees that movers tack onto your bill when they do more work than normal.
Every extra effort from your movers translates to eye-watering accessorial charges that can make your final bill much bigger than you thought.
These charges happen when movers have to do things like carry stuff up lots of stairs, use elevators, move extra heavy things, or pack your stuff for you.
Most people don't know about these charges until they get the bill.
Then they feel tricked and angry.
Can you imagine packing up your whole house, thinking you know exactly what your move will cost, only to get a bill that's hundreds or even thousands more than you expected?
That's the nasty surprise of accessorial charges.
But what if you could know all about these charges ahead of time?
What if you could avoid most of them?
And what if you could work with a moving company that's 100% clear about all costs from the start?
Wouldn't that feel amazing?
The Hidden Costs That Make People Mad About Moving
The moving business has lots of ways to charge you extra money.
Most of these extra charges are hidden in the small print of your contract.
Most people never read all that boring stuff. So when the final bill comes, they get very upset.
You're expecting to pay the amount they told you at first.
But then there's all these extra fees with weird names:
Long carry fees.
Stair fees.
Elevator fees.
Bulky item fees.
The list goes on and on.
Every extra effort from your movers translates to eye-watering accessorial charges.
If you have a piano, that's an extra charge.
If your new house has three steps to the front door, that's an extra charge. If your couch is really big, that's an extra charge.
These charges can add up fast.
A move that was supposed to cost $1,000 can end up costing $2,000 or more.
That's money you probably didn't plan to spend.
Money that could have gone to new furniture or fixing up your new place.
Why Do Moving Companies Hide These Charges?
The sad truth is that many moving companies are not honest.
They know that if they told you the real cost up front, you might pick a different company.
So they give you a low price to get you to sign up.
Then they hit you with all the extra fees later when it's too late to change your mind.
Click here to read my guide on the "Most Common Moving Scams!"
These companies are playing a game with your money.
They're counting on you not knowing about accessorial charges.
They're betting that you won't ask questions.
And they're hoping you'll just pay the bill without making a fuss.
But that's not how we do things at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.
Our founder, Jae Burnham, started this company because he was tired of seeing people get ripped off.
As a YouTube influencer and published author, Jae knows the value of being straight with people.
That's why we tell you about all possible charges up front.
No surprises.
No games.
No hidden fees.
What Are The Most Common Accessorial Charges?
Let's talk about the most common charges you might see on your moving bill.
Knowing about these ahead of time can help you avoid them.
1. Long Carry Fee
This is when movers have to carry your stuff a long way from the truck to your house. Maybe because there's no parking close by. Or maybe your driveway is super long. The farther they have to carry things, the more you pay.
2. Stair Carry Fee
Got stairs? You'll pay extra for each flight movers have to climb. Moving a couch up to a third-floor apartment can cost a lot more than moving it into a house with no steps.
3. Elevator Fee
If movers have to use an elevator to move your stuff, you'll get charged for that too. Elevators are slow and make the move take longer. So you pay for the extra time.
4. Shuttle Service Fee
Sometimes the big moving truck can't get close to your house. Maybe the streets are too narrow. Or there are low hanging trees. In that case, they use a smaller truck to shuttle your stuff from the big truck to your house. And yes, you pay extra for that.
5. Packing and Unpacking Fees
If you want the movers to pack your stuff or unpack it at the new place, that's going to cost extra. Packing takes a lot of time and materials. So this can be one of the biggest extra charges.
6. Storage Fees
If your stuff needs to be stored between moving out and moving in, you'll pay for that storage. This might happen if your new place isn't ready yet.
7. Bulky Item Fee
Got a big, heavy, or awkward item? Like a piano, pool table, big screen TV, or gun safe? You'll pay extra for these. They're harder to move and sometimes need special equipment.
8. Appliance Service Fee
Refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances might need special handling. They might need to be disconnected or prepared for moving. That's an extra charge.
9. Furniture Assembly/Disassembly Fee
If furniture needs to be taken apart to move it and then put back together, you'll pay for that service. This includes beds, entertainment centers, and other big pieces.
10. Weekend/Holiday Surcharge
Moving on a weekend or holiday? Expect to pay more. These are busy times for movers, and they charge premium rates.
11. Fuel Surcharge
When gas prices go up, moving companies pass that cost on to you with a fuel surcharge. This can change based on current gas prices. FYI some states enforce moving companies to charge this fee. States like Michigan.
12. Extra Stop Fee
Need to pick up or drop off items at more than one location? Each extra stop will cost you more.
13. Wait Time/Delay Charges
If movers have to wait around because you're not ready, or there's some other delay that's not their fault, they'll charge you for their time.
14. Redelivery Charge
If no one is home to accept delivery, or there's some other problem that means they have to come back another day, you'll pay a redelivery charge.
15. Hoisting Fee
Sometimes furniture or other items won't fit through doorways or hallways. In that case, movers might have to hoist them through a window or over a balcony. That's a special service with an extra charge.
How These Charges Can Double Your Moving Cost
Let's look at a real example of how accessorial charges can add up.
Say you're moving from a second-floor apartment to a third-floor apartment.
Your basic moving quote is $1,000.
But then the extra charges start adding up:
Stair fee for your old apartment: $100
Stair fee for your new apartment: $150
Long carry fee because the truck can't park close: $75
Bulky item fee for your sectional sofa: $150
Elevator fee at the new building: $75
Weekend surcharge because you're moving on Saturday: $200
Extra stop to pick up a dresser from your mom's house: $100
Wait time because the elevator at the new place was being used by someone else: $75
Appliance service fee for your washer and dryer: $100
Furniture disassembly/assembly for your bed frame: $120
Total accessorial charges: $1,145
So your final bill is now $2,145 - more than double what you were expecting to pay!
This happens to people ALL THE TIME.
And it feels terrible.
You're already stressed about moving.
The last thing you need is a huge bill you weren't prepared for.
The Mr. BigStuff Difference: No Surprise Charges
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we do things differently.
Our founder, Jae Burnham, believes in 100% transparency. That means we tell you about ALL possible charges before you agree to hire us.
When we give you a moving quote, we ask detailed questions about your move.
How many stairs?
How far from the parking spot to your door?
Any really heavy or bulky items?
By getting all this information up front, we can give you a more accurate quote.
And here's the best part: once we give you a price, that's the price you'll pay.
No surprise charges.
No hidden fees.
No last-minute additions to your bill.
We've built our reputation on being honest and trustworthy.
That's why we have over 75 five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper. Our customers love us because we don't play games with pricing.
Questions People Ask About Moving Accessorial Charges
Let's answer some common questions about accessorial charges:
What exactly are accessorial charges in moving?
Accessorial charges are extra fees for services beyond the basic moving service. They cover things like stairs, long carries, bulky items, and special handling requirements.
How can I avoid accessorial charges when moving?
The best way to avoid these charges is to be upfront about your moving situation. Tell the moving company about stairs, elevators, bulky items, and any other special circumstances. Also, do as much as you can yourself, like packing and unpacking. And choose a company like Mr. BigStuff that's transparent about all charges.
Are accessorial charges negotiable with moving companies?
With most companies, yes. But they won't volunteer to lower them - you have to ask. At Mr. BigStuff, we believe in fair pricing from the start, so our charges are already reasonable.
When are accessorial charges applied in a move?
Usually these charges are added to your final bill after the move is complete. That's when most people get the unpleasant surprise. At Mr. BigStuff, we include these in your initial quote so there are no surprises.
Do all moving companies charge accessorial fees?
Yes, all moving companies have some form of accessorial charges. The difference is whether they're upfront about them or not.
What is a long carry fee in moving?
This is a charge for when movers have to carry items more than a certain distance (usually 75-100 feet) from the truck to your door.
How much do movers charge for stairs?
It varies widely, but typically $25-$75 per flight of stairs. At Mr. BigStuff, we assess this based on the specific situation.
What is a shuttle service fee in moving?
This is charged when your location can't be accessed by the main moving truck, so a smaller truck is used to shuttle items between the main truck and your home.
How are moving accessorial charges calculated?
Each company has their own way of calculating these charges. Some charge flat fees, others charge by time or effort required. At Mr. BigStuff, we calculate based on the actual time and effort, not inflated rates.
Can accessorial charges be disputed after a move?
Yes, but it's difficult once the work is done. It's better to clarify all charges before the move starts. With Mr. BigStuff, you'll know all charges upfront, so there's nothing to dispute.
What's the difference between accessorial charges and the base moving rate?
The base rate covers the standard service of loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings under normal conditions. Accessorial charges cover anything extra or unusual.
Are elevator fees always charged in apartment moves?
Most companies charge them, yes. Elevators slow down the moving process. At Mr. BigStuff, we factor this into our upfront quote if we know an elevator will be used.
How much extra do movers charge for heavy items?
It varies, but expect $100-$300 extra for items like pianos, safes, or pool tables. These require special equipment and more workers.
Do movers charge extra for weekend moving dates?
Most do, yes. Weekends are high-demand times. The surcharge is typically 10-25% of the base rate.
What documentation should I receive for accessorial charges?
You should get an itemized bill showing each charge. At Mr. BigStuff, we provide detailed invoices that clearly explain every charge.
Are accessorial charges tax-deductible for relocation?
For moves related to work, they might be. Check with a tax professional. Keep all your moving receipts just in case.
How far in advance should I know about potential accessorial charges?
Ideally, you should know about all potential charges before you book the move. At Mr. BigStuff, we make sure you know everything upfront.
How to Plan for Accessorial Charges
Here's how to avoid the shock of unexpected moving charges:
Be completely honest about your moving situation. Tell the moving company about all stairs, elevators, narrow hallways, long carries, and heavy items. Don't hide anything hoping to save money - it will cost you more in the end.
Ask specifically about accessorial charges. Don't just ask "How much will my move cost?" Instead, ask "What additional charges might apply to my move?"
Get everything in writing. Make sure your quote includes all potential charges, not just the base rate.
Do what you can yourself. Pack your own boxes. Disassemble furniture if you can. The less extra work the movers have to do, the fewer accessorial charges you'll face.
Be ready when the movers arrive. Have everything packed and ready to go. This avoids wait time charges.
Consider the access at your new place. Are there stairs? Is parking difficult? Is there an elevator? All these factors can lead to extra charges.
Move during off-peak times if possible. Weekdays are usually cheaper than weekends. Non-summer months are usually cheaper than summer.
Choose Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving. We're upfront about all charges from the beginning. No surprises, guaranteed.
The Real Cost of Cheap Movers
Many people try to save money by choosing the moving company with the lowest quote.
But those super low quotes are almost always missing the accessorial charges that will be added later.
So that $500 quote might turn into a $1,500 bill by the time all the extra charges are added. And by then, it's too late to change your mind.
Plus, many of the cheapest movers cut corners in other ways too.
They might not be properly insured.
Their workers might not be well-trained.
They might be rough with your belongings.
They might even hold your stuff hostage until you pay inflated charges.
Is saving a few hundred dollars worth the risk of damaged furniture, broken dishes, or a final bill that's triple what you expected? We don't think so.
Click here to get my book "Save Money Moving" if you want real strategies on how save money moving.
At Mr. BigStuff, we might not always have the lowest initial quote.
But our final price is the same as the quote we give you.
No surprises.
No hidden fees.
No bait and switch.
Just honest, transparent pricing.
The Horror Stories We've Heard
We've heard so many moving horror stories from our customers.
Here are a few:
A family was quoted $900 for their move. But when the movers arrived, they said there would be an extra $300 charge for the stairs. Then another $250 for the piano. Then another $200 because it was a Saturday. By the end, the bill was over $2,000.
A young couple was moving to their first apartment. They were quoted $500. But the movers worked really slowly, running up the hourly charge. Then they added fees for every little thing. The final bill was $1,200 - more than double the quote.
A retiree was downsizing to a smaller home. The movers broke her antique table. When she tried to file a claim, they pointed to fine print saying they weren't responsible for items over a certain value unless she paid for extra insurance - which they never told her about.
We hear stories like these all the time.
That's why Jae Burnham founded Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.
He wanted to create a moving company that people could actually trust.
Why Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is Different
We're not like other moving companies.
Here's what makes us different:
Total transparency. We tell you about all charges upfront. No surprises.
Fair pricing. We charge reasonable rates for the services we provide. No inflated accessorial charges.
Professional crews. Our movers are well-trained, respectful, and careful with your belongings.
Full insurance. We're fully insured to protect your items during the move.
Excellent reputation. We have over 75 five-star reviews because we do what we say we'll do.
Local ownership. Our founder, Jae Burnham, is a local entrepreneur who cares about our community.
No hidden fees. The price we quote is the price you pay.
Customer service. We're responsive to your needs and questions before, during, and after your move.
Flexibility. We work with your schedule and specific situation.
Integrity. We believe in doing what's right, not what's most profitable in the short term.
How to Choose a Moving Company That Won't Rip You Off
Here's how to find an honest moving company:
Check reviews. Look at Google, Yelp, Thumbtack, and other review sites. See what real customers say about the company.
Ask about accessorial charges upfront. If the company is vague or evasive, that's a red flag.
Get a written, binding estimate. Make sure it includes all potential charges.
Verify insurance and licensing. Make sure the company is properly insured and licensed to operate.
Ask about their experience. How long have they been in business? Do they have experience with moves like yours?
Trust your gut. If something feels off about the company, look elsewhere.
Don't choose based on price alone. The cheapest quote often leads to the most expensive final bill.
Ask friends and family for recommendations. Personal experiences can be the most reliable guide.
Check for membership in professional associations. This shows a commitment to industry standards.
Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894. We'll give you an honest quote with no hidden fees.
What Really Matters in a Move
When you're moving, what really matters?
Is it saving a few bucks on the initial quote?
Or is it things like:
Knowing exactly what you'll pay with no surprises
Having careful movers who won't damage your stuff
Finishing the move on schedule without delays
Having peace of mind throughout the process
Being treated with respect and honesty
At Mr. BigStuff, we believe these things matter more than having the lowest quote.
We provide value, not just a low price that will balloon later with accessorial charges.
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about surprise fees or dishonest movers.
We take that stress away by being 100% transparent and reliable.
Save Money Without Getting Ripped Off
Want to save money on your move without risking a huge bill of accessorial charges?
Here are some tips:
Do your own packing. This saves on packing fees.
Get rid of stuff you don't need. The less you move, the less it costs.
Be flexible with your moving date. Weekdays and off-season dates are cheaper.
Be ready when the movers arrive. This prevents wait time charges.
Make sure access is good at both locations. Clear paths, easy parking, and good access reduce accessorial charges.
Disassemble furniture yourself if possible. This saves on labor charges.
Label everything clearly. This makes the move more efficient.
Move smaller, valuable items yourself. This reduces risk and potentially saves on insurance.
Book well in advance. Last-minute moves often cost more.
Choose Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving. We'll help you find ways to save without hidden charges later.
We're Here to Help, Not Gouge You
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we have a different philosophy than most moving companies.
We're not looking to make a quick buck by tricking you with low quotes and high accessorial charges.
We're building a business based on trust, honesty, and excellent service.
Our founder, Jae Burnham, brings his experience to our business. He knows that building a good reputation takes time and consistent good service.
That's why we do things differently.
We want you to be so happy with your move that you tell all your friends about us.
We want those 75+ five-star reviews to keep growing.
And we know that won't happen if we play games with accessorial charges.
Real People, Real Reviews
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what real customers say about Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving:
"I was so worried about hidden fees after a bad experience with another moving company. But Mr. BigStuff was totally different. The price they quoted was exactly what I paid. No surprises. And the movers were awesome too!" - Sarah K.
"Jae and his team are the real deal. Professional, careful with our stuff, and no hidden charges. I've recommended them to everyone I know who's moving." - Mike T.
"After getting quotes from three companies, I chose Mr. BigStuff because they were the only ones who explained all potential charges upfront. The move went perfectly, and the final bill matched the quote exactly. So refreshing after hearing horror stories from friends." - Jennifer L.
What To Do Right Now
If you're planning a move, here's what you should do right now:
Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894. We'll answer all your questions about your move and give you an honest quote.
Visit our website at https://justthebigstuff.com. Learn more about our services and our commitment to transparent pricing.
Read our reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper. See why our customers give us five stars again and again.
Schedule your free consultation. We'll discuss your specific moving needs and help you plan a smooth, stress-free move with no surprise accessorial charges.
Don't wait until you've been burned by another moving company's hidden fees.
Choose Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving for your next move and experience the difference that honesty and transparency make.
Our Promise To You
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we make this promise to every customer:
We will be 100% transparent about all charges related to your move.
The quote we give you is the price you'll pay, unless you request additional services during the move.
Our movers will treat you and your belongings with respect.
We will be on time and work efficiently.
We will handle any issues or concerns promptly and fairly.
We will never use high-pressure sales tactics or bait-and-switch pricing.
We will do everything possible to make your move smooth and stress-free.
This is our promise, and we stand by it. It's how we've earned our reputation as the most trusted moving company in the area.
Don't Let Accessorial Charges Ruin Your Move
Remember: Every extra effort from your movers translates to eye-watering accessorial charges - unless you choose Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.
With us, you'll know all charges upfront. No surprises. No stress. Just honest, professional moving services at a fair price.
Moving to a new home should be exciting, not stressful.
Don't let surprise accessorial charges turn your moving day into a nightmare.
Choose a moving company you can trust.
Choose Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.
Call us today at (517) 948-0894 to schedule your move.
We promise you'll be glad you did.
FAQs About Accessorial Charges and Moving
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What's the difference between binding and non-binding estimates?
A binding estimate means the price won't change, regardless of how long the move takes or how much your stuff weighs. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual time, weight, and accessorial charges. At Mr. BigStuff, we prefer binding estimates so you know exactly what you'll pay.
How much notice do I need to give before booking a move?
The more notice, the better. Ideally, book at least 2-4 weeks in advance. This gives us time to plan properly and ensures we can accommodate your preferred date.
Do I need to be present during the entire move?
Yes, it's best if you or someone you trust is present. This allows you to answer questions, provide direction, and sign off on the completion of the move.
How should I prepare for moving day?
Have everything packed and ready to go. Clear pathways for the movers. Set aside valuables and essentials that you'll move yourself. Make sure parking is available for the moving truck.
What happens if something gets damaged during the move?
We're fully insured, so damaged items are covered. Make sure to inspect your items at delivery and note any damage on the paperwork. At Mr. BigStuff, we're careful with your belongings, but accidents can happen. If they do, we'll make it right.
Can you move plants?
Yes, but plants require special care and may be subject to an accessorial charge. Some plants don't travel well, and there may be restrictions on moving plants across state lines.
Do you provide storage services?
Yes, we can arrange storage if needed. This would be an additional service with its own charge, but we'll be upfront about those costs.
How do I pay for my move?
We accept cash, credit cards, and electronic payments. Payment is typically due upon completion of the move. We don't require large deposits upfront like some companies do.
What if I need to reschedule my move?
Contact us as soon as possible. We understand that plans change, and we'll do our best to accommodate your new date without additional charges.
Do you move gun safes, pianos, or other specialty items?
Yes, we have experience moving specialty items. These do require special handling and equipment, so there will be accessorial charges. But we'll tell you those charges upfront, not surprise you with them later.
Final Thoughts
Moving doesn't have to be a financial nightmare.
With the right moving company - one that's honest about all charges from the start - you can have a smooth, stress-free move with no surprise bills.
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we're committed to transparency, professionalism, and fair pricing.
We believe that's why we've grown so quickly since our founding in January 2024 and why we have so many five-star reviews.
When you're ready for a moving experience that's different from the rest - one with no hidden accessorial charges and no unpleasant surprises - give us a call at (517) 948-0894.
We're Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, and we're changing the way people think about moving companies, one transparent move at a time.
