Hourly versus fixed pricing: how movers charge in Addis
Both models are common. Neither is universally better—they align incentives differently. Choose based on how predictable your inventory and access are.
Hourly pricing
How it works
Crew size times hourly rate times hours on site, plus truck and materials as quoted. Overtime may kick in after set thresholds.
Pros
- Flexibility if scope shifts slightly.
- Can be fair when access is unpredictable.
Cons
- Uncertainty if crew moves slowly or delays stack.
- You must understand waiting-time rules.
Fixed or flat project pricing
How it works
One price for defined scope: inventory list, addresses, access assumptions, and service tier.
Pros
- Budget certainty when scope is accurate.
- Simple comparison across vendors.
Cons
- Scope creep triggers change orders.
- Underestimated volume may pause for re-quote.
Hybrid structures
Not-to-exceed caps on hourly jobs or flat fee with hourly overage beyond agreed hours—read the breakpoint carefully.
Which fits your move
- Hourly: evolving packing, uncertain elevator timing, partial loads.
- Fixed: surveyed inventory, stable access, corporate reimbursement needing one invoice total.
Normalize comparisons
Convert quotes to the same basis: ask flat bidders their assumed hours; ask hourly bidders their estimated range.
Minimum hours and truck charges
Some hourly jobs bill a daily minimum even on small loads—ask explicitly.
Illustrative comparison mindset
If hourly is 5,000 birr per hour for four movers and the estimator expects six hours, mentally compare 30,000 plus truck to a flat 32,000 that includes the same scope—ask what happens if hour five runs long.
Change orders on flat jobs
Added wardrobe or last-minute garage should trigger a written amendment, not a verbal nod.
Conclusion
Hourly versus fixed is a tool choice. Pick hourly when life is messy; pick fixed when scope is locked—and update scope in writing when reality changes.
