Gasoline prices have continued to rise, making your move much more expensive

Diesel prices have risen, partly as a result of the instability in the Middle East $5 per gallon for the first time since December 2022which exceeds regular fuel prices.

That’s a huge problem for moving companies that already have tight margins.

While the April 7 temporary ceasefire in Iran has allayed supply concerns for now, oil supply risks remain and rising diesel costs continue to impact movers.

“We’re in a bit of a catch-22 right now. Costs are rising across the board, but customers are more price sensitive than ever. If we raise prices too much, we risk losing sales, so we’re trying to serve our customers well without passing on every cost increase to them,” says Nick Friedmanco-founder of College HUNKS who transport and move junk in Tampa, FL.

If you’re planning to move into a new home this spring, it’s important to keep these rising diesel prices in mind and get quotes as early as possible to secure the most affordable prices for your unique situation.

Implications for short and long distance travel

For long-haul flights, the impact of these skyrocketing diesel prices is immediate and unavoidable.

“You’re traveling hundreds or thousands of miles, so fuel becomes one of the biggest cost drivers. As a result, many carriers are introducing or increasing fuel surcharges just to stay viable,” Friedman explains.

For local movements the effect is less clear, but still significant.

“Even short-distance jobs involve multiple trips, idling trucks and tight schedules, so if fuel is also the rule, it directly impacts profitability, especially for franchisees,” Friedman adds.

The toll of spring movers

While diesel prices are soaring, we are also entering the “Spring Moving Window,” traditionally the busiest time of year for movers.

Demand typically increases as families move between school years and real estate activity increases.

This year, high mortgage rates are slowing transactions, while higher operating costs are putting pressure on movers. This combination means fewer moves in total, higher costs per move and less flexibility to absorb costs.

“It makes this spring one of the most expensive and challenging we’ve ever seen,” Friedman said.

What to do if you want to move this spring

If you’re planning a move this spring, don’t wait until the last minute to secure moving services. The sooner you book, the better.

“Even with changing diesel costs and industry economics, we anticipate the busiest season since the COVID pandemic boom. As demand for movers increases as spring arrives and the supply of movers decreases due to packed schedules, prices will inevitably increase in the summer,” he explains. Roger VanceCEO and founder of Safe ship moving services in Boca Raton, Florida.

Vance recommends that you shop around and receive written moving quotes at least 30 days, and at best 60 to 90 days, prior to your move. This gives you the best chance of the lowest possible rate.

Also, don’t forget to protect yourself from fuel adjustment clauses.

“The importance of carefully reading a moving contract before signing it cannot be understated,” Vance adds.

Some moving companies apply a standard fuel surcharge to the cost of the move, with fuel costs locked in at the time of booking to protect customers from drastic price fluctuations. Others pass on fluctuating costs to the customer as they occur.

Make sure you understand how your moving company will handle fluctuations in fuel rates before you commit. Otherwise, you may face unwanted financial surprises when it’s time to pack.