Changing up your surroundings is a great way to get a fresh perspective on life. However, moving can be stressful if you’re not prepared for the costs involved.
One of the most important things you can do is request a quote for your move. Most companies will ask to come see your home in person and inspect your belongings before they can give you an accurate estimate.
What’s Included in a Moving Quote?
quote for moving companies factor in a number of different services and charges when they give you a quote. Make sure you understand exactly what each service costs and get it in writing so there are no surprises between your moving quote and final bill. For example, most movers charge extra for stair fees, long carries, shuttle services and parking permits. Also, check if the mover includes liability coverage in your moving quote or if you will need to buy it separately.
When you request a moving quote from a moving company, they will generally need to visit your home or business to see the quantity and types of items that are being moved. This will allow the mover to draw up a more accurate moving estimate and provide you with a better idea of what your total cost will be. If you want to get an instant ballpark quote, ask the mover if they can do this over the phone or online.
The date of your move can also influence your moving quote. Some movers offer discounted rates during certain times of the year when they are less busy. During the summer, for instance, moves tend to be much more expensive than during the fall and winter.
If you are doing an interstate move, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that your interstate mover base their moving estimate on a physical survey of your belongings unless you waive this requirement in writing. This allows the mover to assess your belongings’ condition and determine the appropriate level of moving protection for them to carry.
Your moving quotes will typically include tariff costs, mileage charges, packing supplies, fuel for the truck, tolls and a minimum and estimated weight of your shipment. In addition, some movers will also include a fee for labor and additional services like assembly/disassembly. You can often reduce these costs by taking apart some large furniture pieces or boxing items yourself before the move.
Binding Estimates
The best way to ensure that you pay the correct amount for your move is to opt for a binding estimate. A binding estimate guarantees a flat rate that will not change no matter how much your inventory ends up weighting at delivery. Binding estimates are usually based on a full survey of your inventory by a company representative or professional estimator. Binding estimates will also account for additional fees like obtaining packing supplies, full value protection on your belongings, and any other add-on services.
While not all movers offer binding estimates, the best movers will be happy to provide you with one. If you choose to go with a non-binding estimate, it is important that the mover furnishes you with a copy of the estimated charges on the order for service and upon the bill of lading.
In addition, the FMCSA requires that a non-binding estimate be clearly described and include all services to be provided to you. Additionally, a non-binding estimate may not be subject to changes once your shipment is loaded for transportation. The mover can only change the final charge up to ten percent of the original estimate or the tariff provisions in effect at that time, whichever is greater.
Beware of bad movers who will try to use tricks to get around these rules. They may purposefully under price your inventory to lure you in and then slap you with a new, higher estimate on moving day, forcing you to pay the new quote before they will release your items. It’s also worth asking the mover to give you a detailed itemized cost breakdown. If they refuse, move on to a more honest company so you can avoid getting overcharged. This is especially important on local moves, which are often charged by the hour. For long distance moves, you’ll usually receive a non-binding or binding not-to-exceed estimate that will be based on the weight of your inventory and the services required to transport it.