While it’s easy to get moving quotes online, the most accurate way to determine how much your move will cost is for a local movers to visit you and make an in-home assessment. This includes taking a look at your items to see how large they are and what specific challenges may exist.
In-Home Estimates
If you’re planning a full-service move, many moving companies require an in-home survey to give you the most accurate pricing quote. If possible, try to schedule these surveys early and well ahead of your move date. This will allow you to choose the most reliable company and avoid any unexpected fees on moving day.
In-home estimates typically include a detailed inventory of your furniture and household items. In addition, the moving professional will note any obstacles or limitations that may impact the move (stairs, parking permits, etc.). Some moving companies provide an instant online estimate based on the number of bedrooms, distance and dates of your move. These quotes are often only a rough prediction, but can help you budget your costs. Moving costs vary greatly depending on the amount of stuff you’re moving, how much it weighs and the add-on services you request. Read on to learn more about different estimate methods, factors that influence your cost and the difference between binding and non-binding estimates.
Online Estimates
Online moving estimates offer a quick and easy way to get a price estimate without having a mover inside your home. These estimates typically ask you about the size of your household and what items need to be moved. They then use a custom weight calculator to estimate how much your shipment will cost.
Online quotes are usually non-binding and can change based on the actual weight of your shipment. For this reason, it’s best to get a binding or at least a non-binding “not-to-exceed” estimate from a moving company.
Regardless of which type of estimate you choose, make sure to get a written, itemized pricing breakdown. This will help you compare apples-to-apples between different companies. If a moving company doesn’t provide this, it could be an indication that they are overcharging their customers. Also, don’t forget to ask movers about any additional services you may need for your move. These can include disconnection and reinstallation of appliances, third-party service providers and special packing for high-value items.
Estimates for Long-Distance Moves
Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a change in scenery, a long-distance move can be expensive. That’s why it’s important to understand how to get accurate quotes for the services you need.
Most legitimate movers charge by the weight of your shipment, rather than the volume measured in cubic feet. This makes it more difficult for a company to overcharge customers, as they’ll only be charged for the actual weight of their shipment.
In addition to an estimated hourly rate, a long-distance moving quote should include any applicable add-ons such as packing materials and fuel costs. It should also include a complete inventory of the items that will be moved, often called a cube sheet or table of measurements. The list can be shared via online form, email, or during a home visit with the movers. Getting rid of unused items before the move can help reduce the overall cost of the move. Also, choosing a move date during the week instead of the weekend may help save money as well.
Estimates for Local Moves
Many moving companies provide a moving estimate after receiving your information, either through the phone or by arranging for an in-home visit. This allows them to see the details of your move and make sure they are quoting accurately. It’s also a good way to gauge the company’s professionalism and to spot potential red flags, like pricing that’s drastically higher or lower than the competition.
When it comes to local moves, movers typically charge by the hour for labor and trucks. They may also offer additional services, like full packing or storage, at an extra cost. If you’re looking to save on your move, consider donating, selling or trashing unused items before requesting a quote. Also, be aware of your move’s date and season as these will influence the price. For example, weekends and summer months are more expensive for moving companies. This is due to increased demand for their services. Also, longer distances will add to the overall difficulty and time of your move.