Types of moving estimates
Moving companies offer many types of moving estimates and it is helpful to know a little about each type of estimate before you start shopping for a moving company. Most companies will provide estimates over the phone, in person or via the Internet.
Moving Explorer makes this process easier by locating several companies that are in your area and gathering estimates from them within 24-48 hours. Today, many movers prefer to conduct their estimates over the Internet, as this is very convenient and fast. No matter how you obtain your estimate you should take the time to fully understand the methods used to calculate your estimate and the terms implied by the company’s contract.
Most companies will provide “bulk part” estimates on line. These estimates are helpful for getting started but they tend not to be accurate as the actual costs may vary greatly from the estimate. Once it comes time to move, you may discover that you need additional services or that your inventory is greater than the company’s estimate, leading to inflated costs.
If you are moving from a 3-bedroom-plus apartment or house and you wish to hire help with moving your belongings, we recommend scheduling on-site visits with each moving company. Most on-site visits take between 45 minutes to an hour, and many companies offer them free of charge. Once a company visits your home they will often offer you a ”binding” cost estimate that guarantees that the actual cost will not exceed the estimate by more than 10%.
Some companies offer a “not to exceed” or flat-rate estimate for their services. With this type of agreement, the price on the estimate is the exact price you will pay, featuring all the services needed for your relocation. Very few companies offer flat-rate estimations and they will almost always require an on-site visit before they prepare your estimate.
We highly recommend that you will submit your information to our site and allow us to put you in contact with the best companies in your area that will perform on-site inspections and offer you competitive estimates.
