A moving quote is an estimation of the cost for movers to move your belongings from one location to another. It’s important to understand what goes into a mover’s quote so you can avoid being surprised by unforeseen expenses when the time comes to sign the contract.
In general, a binding estimate will include every service you need from the moving company including packing and unpacking, stair charges, shuttles, storage, etc. If a service is not listed on the moving quote, ask the estimator about it. Depending on the company, they may charge for these services based on their tariff or by the hour.
The type of service you choose will also impact the price. For example, if you have an extremely large item like a grand piano or a pool table that needs to be disassembled in order to pass through narrow hallways or doorways, this will add to the overall cost of your move.
Binding estimates are a safe option because they guarantee a set price based on the estimated weight of your items and any additional services you select. The only caveat is that if the actual weight of your shipment ends up being higher than the estimate, you will be charged for the extra amount.
Non-binding estimates are based on the moving company’s published tariff and are not a guaranteed price. That means the final cost can deviate from the original estimate based on how much your shipment weighs, how long it takes to load and unload and any additional services you choose. However, according to rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, movers can’t require that customers pay more than 110 percent of the original estimate at the time of delivery.
The day of the week, month and season of your move also influence moving prices. The peak moving season is spring through late summer, and prices rise significantly at this time due to the high demand. In addition, weekends and national holidays are generally more expensive because they require more resources.
An in-person survey of your home and/or business will help provide the most accurate quote. An estimator will take into account the number and size of rooms, furniture pieces and boxes to get a better understanding of your inventory. They will also note any obstacles that might affect the moving process such as narrow passages or stairs that may need to be negotiated.
It’s best to have a clear idea of what you want from your mover before you accept a non-binding or binding not-to-exceed moving estimate. This will help you avoid any surprises and will prevent the moving company from trying to sneak in extra fees at the last minute. If you are interested in a more binding estimate, consider asking your moving company about their policy on this and the various options available. Then decide if this is the best option for you. quotes on movers