Comparing a Moving Quote, Doing it Right

Don't Stick to One

When it comes to moving, the more options you have, the better.

The secret to finding and choosing a good national moving company is to get as many quotes as possible. This will allow you to have sufficient options which you can then study and compare.

However, don't get carried away either and get a dozen quotations because to be on the realistic side, you may not have that much time (or patience) to go through tons of paperwork. Our recommendation is for you to get at least 3-5 quotes from different moving companies. That way, you won't get overwhelmed by their quotations and still be able to get a good grasp of the market.

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What to Do with the Quotes: How to Compare

Now it's time to compare the details of each proposed quotation or moving contract. Here are the things that you need to look at carefully:

1. 1. The Name of the Company Itself

      Before we delve deeper in to the quotations, you should consider the company that gave it to you first. Is it a local moving company or are they an established brand with international operations? Of course if you're dealing with a company with years of experience in the industry, you should factor that in as a positive trait.

   2. What's included in the package?

      Find out exactly what each company is including in the base rate. Most companies include basic services like loading, transport, unloading and even unpacking. Some companies charge extra for packing services and packing materials such as boxes and moving equipment while others offer them for free. Clarify these details before making a decision.

   3. What additional costs can you incur?

      Majority of companies won't tell customers that they'll need to pay extra if the movers need to go up a flight of stairs, or if they have to walk far from your driveway. You may also have to pay for the transport of fragile items and for specific types of furniture. Call each company about possible additional costs and write down the prices for these services. In addition to this, use the opportunity to ask them about services that they offer for free.

      Some extra charges to take note of:

      • Packing and Disconnecting Fees

        For example, they may charge you for disconnecting and packing a huge bath tub. Ask about disassembling furniture, gas lines, and other special items.

      • Fees for extremely heavy items

        Grand pianos, all-terrain vehicles, furniture and other big appliances can be included here.

      • Flight charges

        Residents of apartment buildings and multi-storey houses, need to watch out for flight charges (flight of stairs).

      • Charges for inconvenient locations

        If the movers need to traverse difficult terrain, or if you don't have an accessible driveway and they have to walk far (also known as Long Carries), they may charge additional fees.

      • Shuttle Fees

        When the moving truck is not allowed into your neighborhood or if it just can't fit into your small streets, you may need to pay extra for the use of smaller trucks (shuttle).

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1. 1. Check the liability and insurance policies and packages

      Here are the types of insurance that you can avail:

      • Basic Carrier Liability

        Carriers are required by the law to offer insurance but they can only offer a package of ($0.60) sixty cents per pound per article when moving things out of state. Local rates may vary.

      • Declared Value Protection

        For this type of coverage, your mover will be liable for the entire shipment at an agreed amount that is usually equal to $1.25 per pound times the weight. If the goods get damaged during shipping and transport, the settlement will be based on the depreciated value of the items.

      • Lump Sum or Assessed Value

        If your items are of high value, this is the type of insurance you need. This is applicable for items of extreme value (antiques, art collections etc.).This kind of coverage is usually purchased based on $1000 increments.

See also: What is Moving Insurance?

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1. Study the moving estimates

   Most companies will give you an estimate either via email or phone. Of course these are only estimates and can never be an actual gauge of how much you will have them transport. Ask for an on-site estimate (personal visit to your home) so that you can have a clearer view of the price before the project begins.

2. Check their Refund Policy

   Ask each company about their existing refund policy is. Should you need to move the date or even cancel your move, would you need to pay anything? Will they refund any initial deposits made?

Always remember that national moving involves serious money so before you make your investment, it should be basic protocol for you to consider each company and study each quote with a critical eye.

For more information about getting online moving quotes, contact us today.

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Update: We have a dedicated page to get instant moving quotes online, this will help you get multiple moving quotes and accurate estimate for your upcoming relocation!