A good quotes for moving companies will provide a written estimate that includes the total cost of your move. The quote should also include a full inventory list of the items you are moving.
Local moves are generally charged by the hour, while long-distance movers will charge based on weight. The date of your move will affect the cost as well. Try to be flexible with your dates to save money.
Cost
Whether you’re looking to compare pricing for traditional movers or do-it-yourself moving options like rental trucks and containers, a detailed moving quote is essential. The cost of the move will be affected by a number of factors, including the type of service you need, the weight of your shipment, and the distance of your move.
The date of your move also influences the moving cost. Generally, summer moving dates tend to be more expensive due to high demand. If you have flexibility, try to choose a less expensive date.
The more items you have to move, the higher the cost. Consider donating, selling or trashing unused items to reduce your overall shipment weight. Some moving companies will provide a full inventory list of everything they’ll be hauling, which is helpful for budget purposes. Others will give you a binding estimate after an in-home evaluation. This type of moving quote guarantees the price even if the actual shipment ends up weighting less than the original estimate.
Service
Many moving companies offer a full range of services, including extra insurance, packing assistance, and piano and fine art moves. These additional services can significantly increase the price of a move, and you should always ask about them before booking. Additionally, seasonality can affect the quotes you receive, with rates being higher during the summer due to high demand.
If your move is long-distance, movers will base their quotes on cargo weight and distance. This is because interstate moves must comply with rules set by the Department of Transportation.
You can also opt for a binding estimate, which will guarantee the final cost of the move. This will require a representative of the company to visit and assess your belongings in person. Ultimately, this is the safest option because it protects you from being overcharged. Additionally, it can save you time and stress. This can be especially helpful if your move is scheduled during the weekend or on a holiday.
Reputation
The reputation of a moving company is another factor that affects the quotes they provide. Companies with good customer service will usually provide more accurate quotes than those who do not. A positive reputation will also help a moving company gain new clients. This is why it is important to take online reviews with a grain of salt.
When evaluating moving companies, it is essential to consider how the company calculates its pricing and whether or not it includes additional services such as packing and storage. Some companies offer flat-rate quotes, which can be helpful for budgeting purposes. Others charge an hourly rate, which is typically higher for long-distance moves or larger homes.
In addition, the size of your home and the amount of furniture you have will affect your quote. Typically, movers will only provide accurate quotes after they have seen your home in person. This is why it is essential to fill out a Shiply profile and provide the moving company with detailed information about your move.
Insurance
When comparing moving quotes, be sure to look at the level of insurance coverage each company offers. Although not true insurance, moving companies are required by federal law to offer two levels of liability options called valuation coverage. These policies are not insurance, but instead declare how much the movers will pay if your items are lost or damaged.
The most basic of these is released value protection, which pays 60 cents per pound of the loaded weight. Some movers also offer full replacement value protection, which is a more comprehensive policy and can cost more.
In addition to these, a reputable mover will have general liability insurance that covers damages caused by the company’s negligence. A COI, or certificate of insurance, can provide proof of this policy. Many moving companies purchase an umbrella policy, which adds a layer of protection for situations beyond their normal coverage limits. This is typically a good idea for long-distance moves.