When choosing a moving company to handle your move, quotes and estimates are an important part of the process. Getting multiple quotes gives you context and helps you spot red flags (like a quote that’s significantly higher or lower than the competition) as well as potential saving opportunities.
When you request a quote, the first step is to provide the moving company with a detailed inventory of everything that will be moved. This is often called a cube sheet or a table of measurements and should be accurate to the best of your ability. Some movers also require an in-home visit with an estimator to perform a physical survey of your belongings before providing an estimate.
It’s best to gather several moving quotes, especially if you’re moving across state lines. This will give you a good sense of what your options are and what is typical for the industry. In addition, you should always read reviews and check a moving company’s licensing and registration status.
The type of moving services you need will influence your quote, as well as the dates of your move. For example, a local move will typically be priced by the hour and based on the number of movers needed, while a long-distance move is usually billed based on weight rather than time.
Some movers also offer add-on services such as packing, storage and debris removal. These typically come at an additional cost, but may save you time and money in the long run. Additionally, many large moving companies offer a variety of insurance policies to protect your belongings during transit. These typically come at an extra cost, but are worth considering given the value of your belongings and the potential for damage or loss.
If you’re requesting quotes from a national moving company, be sure to ask whether they are binding or nonbinding. A nonbinding quote will allow the mover to change the price on moving day, while a binding quote (also known as a Binding-Not-to-Exceed or BNE) binds the mover to honor the original estimate provided. However, the final bill could still exceed the estimate if you add items on moving day, such as additional furniture or boxes. For this reason, it’s a good idea to donate or sell unwanted items before your move. This will lighten your load and reduce your overall moving cost. moving.company quotes