Hidden Moving Charges Guide
Learn about common hidden charges when moving in Dubai and how to avoid them. Get transparent pricing and peace of mind.
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Why Hidden Charges Happen
Some moving companies use low initial quotes to win business, then add surprise fees on moving day when you\'re committed. Others simply lack transparency. Understanding common hidden charges helps you ask the right questions and choose an honest company.
Common Hidden Charges
Know what to watch out for when getting moving quotes
Elevator or Stairs Fees
AED 100-500Extra charges if no elevator available or for carrying items up/down stairs. Often not mentioned in initial quotes.
How to avoid: Ask upfront if stairs/elevator access incurs extra charges. Specify your property details when requesting quote.
Long Carry Distance
AED 50-200 per tripCharged when moving truck cannot park close to building entrance. Common in compounds and gated communities.
How to avoid: Mention parking situation. Ask about distance limits included in base price.
Building Permit Fees
AED 100-300Some companies add administrative fees on top of actual building permit costs.
How to avoid: Ask for breakdown of permit costs. Compare with direct building management fees.
Weekend or Holiday Premium
25-50% extraHigher rates for Friday moves or public holidays, sometimes not clearly stated upfront.
How to avoid: Always confirm if weekend/holiday rates differ from weekday pricing.
Overtime Charges
AED 100-200/hourIf move takes longer than estimated, hourly overtime charges kick in. Often vaguely defined.
How to avoid: Get detailed time estimate in writing. Ask what happens if move takes longer than quoted.
Packing Material Markup
100-300% markupBoxes, tape, and bubble wrap charged at inflated prices on moving day.
How to avoid: Get packing material costs in advance or buy your own supplies.
Heavy Items Surcharge
AED 200-500 per itemExtra fees for safes, pianos, large appliances not disclosed initially.
How to avoid: List all large/heavy items when requesting quote. Ask about weight/size limits.
Assembly/Disassembly
AED 50-300 per itemFurniture requiring disassembly charged extra, even if necessary for moving.
How to avoid: Clarify what furniture work is included in base price.
Storage Fees
AED 50-200/dayIf new property not ready, temporary storage charged at premium rates.
How to avoid: Confirm move-in dates. Ask about storage rates before committing.
Fuel Surcharge
AED 100-300Additional fuel costs for long-distance moves or multiple trips between emirates.
How to avoid: Ask if fuel is included. Get all-inclusive quote for your specific route.
Warning Signs of Scams
Red flags that indicate a potentially dishonest moving company
Quote significantly lower than competitors
Too good to be true usually is. Low quotes hide future add-ons.
Cash-only payment demanded
No paper trail makes disputes impossible.
No physical office or registered company
Unverified companies can disappear with your deposit.
Refuses to provide written estimate
Verbal quotes allow them to change prices on moving day.
Large deposit required upfront
Reputable companies charge after service or minimal deposit.
No insurance coverage offered
Your belongings at risk with zero protection.
Get a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your move. We'll handle the details.
Questions to Ask Every Mover
Use this checklist when requesting quotes
- Is this an all-inclusive quote or are there potential additional charges?
- What is included in the base price? (labor, transport, packing materials, permits)
- Are there charges for stairs, elevators, or long carry distances?
- Do you charge differently for weekends or public holidays?
- What happens if the move takes longer than estimated?
- Are building permits included or charged separately?
- Do you charge extra for heavy items like safes or large appliances?
- Is furniture disassembly/assembly included?
- What are your accepted payment methods?
- Do you provide insurance? What does it cover?
- Will you provide a written, detailed breakdown before I commit?
How We Ensure Transparency
- Free In-Home Survey: We assess your belongings in person or via video call
- Detailed Written Quote: Every charge explained and itemized
- No Surprise Fees: What we quote is what you pay (unless you change scope)
- Building Permits Included: We handle and include permit costs in quote
- Comprehensive Insurance: All moves covered with full transparency
- Pay After Completion: Minimal deposit, balance due after successful move
Hidden Charges FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our moving services
Good movers ask for 10-25% deposit or none at all. You pay the rest when done. Watch out if they want 50% or more upfront. Never pay full price before the move.
Check their trade license on the DED website. Look up their office address. Read Google and Facebook reviews. Ask for references. Make sure they have insurance.
No. Always get a written quote after they see your items. Phone quotes miss details and lead to surprise fees. Ask for an in-home or video survey.
A good quote lists: labor, transport, packing supplies, permits, insurance, special gear, timeline, and payment terms. It should say what is and is not included.
Only if the job changes—like extra items or different access than you said. Discuss any changes before they happen. This is why written quotes matter.
Point to your written quote. Ask for the extra charge in writing. You can refuse if it is not fair. Take photos. Report to Dubai Consumer Rights if needed.
Get a Truly Transparent Quote
No hidden fees. No surprise charges. Just honest, upfront pricing for your move. See exactly what you're paying for.