FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I aim to keep my pricing fair for the quality and efficiency of our service. We are in a very competitive market and industry. Transportation and lead fees can be very expensive, not to mention the taxes that come with earning the business. When delivering 1 or 2 large items or just a few small items, I try to be as affordable as possible depending on the items and distance. I will do my best to provide a low flat rate when possible for short and quick deliveries. My regular rates for moving will include a minimum charge based on job size for labor and an additional charge for equipment and transportation fees depending on move size and distance. I only charge for actual time worked above the minimum rounded up to the nearest 15 minutes. Each hour billed includes 2 strong and experienced movers. Some customers prefer to provide their own equipment, and that is okay too. Uhaul charges roughly $40 a day for their equipment depending on size and another $1.29 to $1.79 per mile for local rentals. They also only get about 10 miles per gallon or less when fully loaded. A rental will typically cost $120 to $140 for a 30 to 40 mile round trip including rental, mileage and fuel. More can be expected for additional supplies and safe move insurance. For Studio and 1BR moves we can often complete moves with our equipment. We can sometimes complete a smaller 2BR with our equipment as well. For larger moves, I offer the customer an opportunity to provide the equipment, or I will provide the equipment and pass through the costs without markup. To confirm and hold the appointment times, I do ask for a deposit equal to the minimum hourly charge for each project size including the base equipment fee. The balance owing is due upon job completion. My pricing is as follows for minimum deposits: Base Equipment: $100 includes up to 20 miles from point A to B. Add $1 per additional mile. Studio/1BR = 2 hours 2BR = 4 hours 3 BR = 6 hours 4 BR = 8 hours 5 BR = 10 hours These minimums are not intended to be total job hours, but the minimum expected and will often exceed these minimums base on the number of items, distance and obstacles to move between the home and the truck. For packing, a custom quote will be provided when requested and will need to be scheduled for at least 2 days prior to the move date.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When contacted on Thumbtack I try to reach out to the customer immediately by phone. When multiple Pros are selected, the chances of winning the job decrease when the customer is satisfied with the first Pro to reach out. Thankfully I am often on the winning end, but this does cause the other Pros selected for bid to get stuck with some pretty high lead fees, and often without a fair opportunity to quote the job. When contacting the customer, I introduce my self and thank them for choosing my team. I then recap the initial request and inquire about specifics of the project not covered in the request. When necessary we discuss different options to meet the needs of the move including schedule, materials, equipment, process, and pricing. When a small budget is a concern I am often able to offer a discount, or in some cases I may offer to beat a verified quote to win the job.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
Portland is a diverse and friendly market. I have worked with business and residential customers on small and large projects. I have been blessed to have the most appreciative and thankful customers for the hard work that my team and I provide. While I aim to provide a quality, safe, and efficient service to all of my customers, I really appreciate the ones we leave with a smile. It is reassuring of a job well done! My absolute favorite customers are the ones that call us back again for another project. I have been blessed with many repeat customers and referrals, which is necessary in a competitive market and industry. For customers by location, I try to keep my boundary to the inner Portland Metro Region to keep costs low. Transportation costs are costly and there is additional road tax for motor carriers.