How to Get a Moving Quote Before Hiring Movers
Getting a moving quote is one of the first things you should do before hiring movers for your move. This process will reveal the possible prices you could expect for your move so that you can compare them with other companies and find a competitive price to work with. It will also help you stay away from companies that charge excessive amounts for their services and avoid any moving scams.
The type of move you’re making will play a large part in the cost of your moving quote. Local moves are typically cheaper than interstate or international ones. Additionally, longer distances tend to cost more than shorter ones.
A moving company will usually require a walkthrough of your home in order to provide you with an accurate quote. This is because some items that you might not think of requiring special handling, like a full attic or a fully furnished garage, could require the extra time and attention of a moving crew. It’s important to make sure that all items you want to be moved are accounted for, as omissions can add up quickly.
There are several different types of quotes that a moving company can give you, including a binding, non-binding, and binding-not-to-exceed estimate. A binding estimate holds the movers to their original pricing so long as no changes are made to the move, whereas a non-binding estimate can change based on your shipment’s actual weight on moving day.
In addition to the movers’ fees, you’ll also be paying for additional services like packing and unpacking. These costs can vary by company, but they are generally calculated by the hour. Some movers may offer packing and unpacking as an add-on to their moving service, while others will consider it an essential part of the move itself.
Other factors that influence a moving quote include the drop-off and pick-up locations, as well as the distance between your old and new home. The latter can increase the price if a truck cannot access your house due to a narrow road or if you are located in a high-rise building. In this case, a crane may need to be used in order to load and unload your belongings into the truck, and you will likely have to pay a hoisting fee.
Storage fees can also add up to your final move cost if you need the company to keep your belongings for longer than expected. This is especially common for long-distance moves and moves that take place during peak season. To avoid these extra charges, try to plan your move around the off-season and the weekday, which will be more affordable for you and your movers. In addition to saving money, you’ll also save on gas, lodging, and other travel expenses. get a moving quote
