If you are preparing to move, you may find yourself calling moving companies to get quotes. As you speak to a company, you may ask if there are discounts available or ways to get the quote cheaper. One option that they may give you is backloading. This is a term many people are not familiar with, yet is a great way to pay less if you are looking to hire movers to help with your move. Here is some information you should know if this is something you may be considering.

What is Backloading?

Backloading basically means that you are sharing a large moving truck driven and loaded by a local or long distance moving company with one or more people. These are often large commercial moving trucks, not the smaller moving trucks that people envision when they think of a U-Haul or other moving trucks.

How Can Backloading Save Someone Money?

Backloading can save you money because the cost of transporting your goods is divided up among multiple people. If you were to hire a moving company to transport your goods for you, you are responsible for paying the entire bill yourself. And the moving company will charge enough to pay their driver and gas. When you backload, the driver and gas expenses are split among the people sharing the truck, which ultimately results in a lesser rate for you.  

Can You Hire a Mover at the Last Minute and Still Backload?

Yes. If you find yourself moving at the last minute, backloading may be a great option for you. Often, movers (here is a link for more information; check it out) will realize that there is more space in a truck than they anticipated after they load a truck up. This is because they like to err on the side of caution and overestimate, rather than underestimate. This means that you can often find space in a moving truck at the last minute. However, booking ahead is advised if you are looking for a specific date and time. Booking ahead is the only way to ensure your belongings will be transported on the day you requested.

Are There Any Downsides to Backloading?

When you backload, you are sharing a trailer with other families belongings. As such, there is always a chance your belongings can get mixed up with other peoples. To prevent this from happening, clearly label your belongings with your last name. Placing something distinguishable on the boxes, such as drawing a bright happy face on each of your boxes, can also set yours apart from anyone else your belongings may share the space with.

Moving can get expensive fast. If you are on a tight budget or simply looking for a way to save on your moving expenses, consider backloading. Getting answers to the questions you have about this topic will help you decide if it is the right option for your move.