Hidden Costs of Moving
Relocating in a fast-paced city like Mumbai is already a high-stress event. Between planning, packing, and dealing with traffic and timelines, the last thing you want is unexpected moving charges blowing up your budget.
While most packers and movers in Mumbai offer a base quote, many additional costs sneak in under the radar. These hidden costs can easily make your move 20–30% more expensive than expected.
At Shiftraa, we believe in complete transparency. That’s why we’ve compiled this detailed guide to the 10 hidden costs of moving in Mumbai – so you can plan smarter, avoid unpleasant surprises, and move with confidence.
1. GST and Other Applicable Taxes
GST on Moving Services in Mumbai
Most movers provide a base quote that excludes GST. As per current tax laws:
- GST at 5% applies if only transportation is included.
- GST at 18% applies if transportation + packing + loading/unloading is included.
So if your quote is ₹10,000 and includes all services, the final invoice may come out to ₹11,800 with GST.
✅ Tip: Always ask for a GST-inclusive quote. Reputable companies like Shiftraa provide upfront, transparent pricing.
2. Octroi and Entry Tax (Still Applies in Some Cases)
Though octroi has been largely subsumed under GST, some areas in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) may still charge entry fees for commercial vehicles entering city limits.
- For example, Navi Mumbai and Thane may levy entry tolls or permit charges.
- If your move involves crossing these zones, expect ₹500 to ₹2000 in extra costs.
✅ Pro Tip: Confirm whether your move involves inter-city jurisdiction to anticipate these charges.
3. Insurance Charges – Often Overlooked but Essential
Movers typically offer transit insurance, which protects against damage or loss during transportation.
- Standard insurance rate is 1.5% to 3% of declared value.
- If you’re moving valuable items like electronics, antiques, or art, this can add ₹1000–₹5000+ to your bill.
Also, many moving companies push mandatory insurance, which may not be optional even if you already have personal insurance.
✅ Shiftraa Tip: Always ask if insurance is included or separate, and clarify what it does and doesn’t cover.
4. Charges for Bulky or Special Items
Do you have any of the following?
- Aquariums
- Pianos
- Safes or Lockers
- Large TVs (55″+)
- Gym Equipment
- Glass-top furniture or Chandeliers
These are classified as special handling items, requiring skilled labor and additional packing material, costing you ₹500–₹3000 per item.
✅ Pro Tip: List such items during the pre-move survey for accurate cost estimation.
5. Floor Charges & Lack of Elevator Access
If you’re moving from or to a building without a lift, or your apartment is on the 3rd floor or higher, movers may charge extra for:
- Manpower effort
- Rope-pulling or equipment for vertical lifting
Charges typically range from:
- ₹200–₹500 per floor or
- Flat ₹1000–₹3000 for complex hoisting jobs
✅ Insider Tip: At Shiftraa, we factor this into the initial quote after a site inspection—no surprises later.
6. Dismantling & Reassembly of Furniture
Basic shifting may not include:
- Disassembly of modular beds, wardrobes, tables
- Reassembly at the new location
Charges range between ₹500–₹2000 depending on complexity and tools required.
Some movers also charge extra for fitting electrical appliances, such as geysers, ceiling fans, and wall-mounted TVs.
✅ Suggestion: Request a complete list of what the quote includes — packing, shifting, reassembly — to avoid service gaps.
7. Last-Minute Booking or Urgent Move Fees
If you book movers within 24–48 hours of the move, many companies charge a premium due to:
- Non-availability of vehicles or manpower
- Rescheduling logistics
This can increase your cost by 10% to 25%.
✅ Shiftraa Insight: Book your move at least 5–7 days in advance to avoid surge pricing.
8. Storage Charges for Delayed Moves
If there’s a gap between vacating the old home and occupying the new one, you may need temporary storage.
Most movers charge:
- ₹100–₹300 per day for basic storage
- ₹1000+ per month for longer durations or air-conditioned storage
✅ Shiftraa Advantage: We offer secure warehousing with daily or monthly options, ideal for home renovations or phased moves.
9. Toll, Parking, and State Border Charges
Depending on your move route:
- Expressway tolls, parking fees in tight urban spaces, or
- Border charges for interstate relocation (e.g., Mumbai to Pune or Gujarat)
…can sneak in as out-of-pocket expenses billed post-move or during transit.
✅ Best Practice: Request an all-inclusive quote that factors in any en route expenses.
10. Tips and Gratuity for Labor
While tipping isn’t mandatory, moving laborers often expect ₹100–₹300 per person as a token of appreciation, especially for:
- Long hours
- Heavy lifting
- Delicate handling
In Mumbai’s cultural context, tipping is customary — so it’s wise to factor this into your budget.
✅ Note: Professional companies like Shiftraa never pressurize customers for tips and pay fair wages to staff.
Bonus: Hidden Cost of Choosing the Wrong Mover
Choosing a mover solely based on low quotes can lead to:
- Delayed delivery
- Poor packing
- Damage or theft
- Post-move extortion (fake re-calculation of bill)
These indirect costs in terms of stress, lost time, and financial disputes far outweigh the savings.
✅ Why Shiftraa?
We’re a trusted name in Mumbai with verified reviews, transparent pricing, and zero hidden charges. We help you move smart and stress-free.
Summary Table – Hidden Moving Costs in Mumbai
| Hidden Cost | Estimated Price Range | Can Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| GST & Taxes | ₹500 – ₹3000+ | ❌ Mandatory |
| Entry Tax / Octroi | ₹500 – ₹2000 | ❌ Zone-dependent |
| Insurance Charges | ₹1000 – ₹5000+ | ✅ Ask upfront |
| Special Handling Items | ₹500 – ₹3000 per item | ✅ Declare early |
| Floor/Elevator Charges | ₹200 – ₹3000 | ✅ Discuss before |
| Furniture Dismantling | ₹500 – ₹2000 | ✅ Confirm inclusion |
| Last-Minute Move Charges | 10% – 25% extra | ✅ Book early |
| Temporary Storage | ₹100 – ₹300/day | ✅ Plan transition |
| Tolls & Parking | ₹200 – ₹1000+ | ✅ Route planning |
| Tipping Laborers | ₹100 – ₹300/person | ✅ Optional |
How to Avoid These Hidden Costs
Here are Shiftraa’s Top 5 Tips:
- Insist on a Pre-Move Survey – Either virtual or in-person.
- Ask for a GST-inclusive, all-inclusive quote.
- Disclose special or fragile items in advance.
- Read the contract terms carefully.
- Choose a trusted moving partner like Shiftraa.
Conclusion: Transparency is the Key to a Stress-Free Move
The emotional and logistical weight of moving is enough without being blindsided by costs. The good news? With the right information and a reliable moving company, you can take control.
At Shiftraa, we pride ourselves on being honest, upfront, and affordable. No tricks, no traps—just smooth transitions.
✅ Whether you’re moving your home, office, or vehicle, locally in Mumbai or across India, we’re here to help you navigate every step—without surprise costs.
Looking to Move Without Hidden Costs?
📦 Get a Free Pre-Move Survey & Transparent Quote Today!
👉 Call Shiftraa or Visit: www.shiftraa.com
