If you’ve been shopping around for movers, you’ve probably seen offers like “$280 per trip” or “cheap per load”. It sounds like an easy deal—until the quote suddenly grows after the mover arrives, or when you mention stairs, long carry, bulky items, or a tight timing window.
This article explains how “cheap per trip” pricing really works in Singapore (2026), what’s often missing from the headline price, and how you can protect yourself from “price bait” so you can budget properly and move with confidence.
What does “per trip” pricing actually mean?
“Per trip” usually means the mover is charging for:
- One vehicle load (e.g., 10ft/14ft lorry—size varies by company)
- A basic point-to-point transport
- Sometimes basic manpower (but not always clearly defined)
The problem is: “per trip” isn’t standardised. Two companies can both say “per trip” but include completely different things.
Why it looks cheap upfront
A low “per trip” number gets attention. It’s a simple headline that makes comparing easy—but the real total depends on what gets added later.
The 10 common add-ons that can inflate “cheap per trip” quotes
Here are the add-ons that frequently turn a low “per trip” quote into a much higher bill:
1) Extra manpower or extra hours
Some “per trip” quotes assume a small crew and limited time. If the job takes longer than expected, extra labour charges may appear.
2) Stairs / no lift access
If either pickup or drop-off has stairs (or a lift that’s too small), movers may charge extra due to the difficulty and time.
3) Long carry (far walking distance)
If your unit is far from the loading bay, or parking is limited, you may be charged for long-distance carrying.
4) Waiting time (lift delays, management rules, loading bay queues)
Condo rules, lift booking windows, and security checks can cause delays. Some movers charge after a grace period.
5) Bulky or fragile items
Items like wardrobes, bulky sofas, fridges, glass cabinets, mirrors, or large TVs often need extra protection and careful handling.
6) Dismantling & reassembly
Some movers say “basic dismantling included” but exclude certain items (bed frames, wardrobes, partitions). Always confirm scope.
7) Wrapping / protective materials
Stretch wrap, bubble wrap, corner protection, mattress covers—these may be charged separately if not included.
8) Peak dates & urgent booking
End-of-month moves, weekends, and last-minute bookings can increase prices due to high demand.
9) Multiple stops
If you need to drop items at a storage unit, a relative’s place, or a second address, extra stops may add fees.
10) Extra trips due to misestimated load
This is the biggest “per trip” trap: if the mover underestimates your load, you pay for extra trips.
Why “per trip” quotes lead to surprise bills
“Per trip” pricing isn’t automatically bad—some movers use it fairly. The issue is when the quote is given without asking key details:
- unit type (HDB/condo/landed)
- floor level + lift access
- distance from parking to unit
- bulky/fragile items
- time window / lift booking constraints
- how much you’re moving (cartons + furniture)
When those details are missing, the price you get is often a best-case estimate, not a true quote.
How to protect yourself: 7 questions to ask before booking
Before you commit, ask these questions and get answers in writing (WhatsApp is fine):
- How many movers are included and for how many hours?
- Is wrapping/protection included? What’s charged extra?
- Are stairs/long carry/waiting time chargeable? What are the rates?
- Does “basic dismantling” include beds and wardrobes, or only simple items?
- What truck size is used, and how do you estimate number of trips?
- Are there extra charges for weekends / peak periods?
- If the scope changes slightly, how do you confirm pricing before proceeding?
If a mover avoids these questions or won’t put answers in writing, that’s a red flag.
The easiest way to get an accurate quote (and avoid “bait pricing”)
The fastest way is to provide the details that affect cost upfront.
Here’s what to send:
- Move date + time window
- Pickup & drop-off postal codes
- Floor level + lift access (both locations)
- Any bulky/fragile items
- Photos/video of the items (living room + bedrooms + kitchen)
If you’re moving from an HDB or condo and want a clear, WhatsApp-first quote process, use this page:
HDB & Condo Movers Singapore — Instant WhatsApp Quote:
https://xpressmovers.com.sg/hdb-condo-movers-singapore/
“Cheap” vs “Transparent”: which is better in 2026?
A low headline price can be fine if the scope is clear. But for most homeowners, the best value is:
- clear scope,
- predictable final pricing,
- careful handling,
- fewer surprises and delays.
A transparent quote might not be the cheapest “headline number”—but it usually avoids last-minute add-ons that make the final bill higher anyway.
Final takeaway
“Per trip” quotes aren’t automatically scams—but in Singapore, they often become expensive when the quote is based on incomplete information. If you want to protect your budget, get an itemised quote, confirm what’s included, and send the right details upfront.
Want a fast, transparent quote? WhatsApp your move details and photos for an itemised estimate.
Your Satisfaction is Our Concern.