How Does a Home Moving Estimate Work?
So you fill out all of your moving information, answer a few questions, and perhaps the firm conducts an inventory, and voila: you have a moving quote. But how does a home relocation quote work? Knowing how a moving company calculates your estimate will help you assess whether or not the fee is appropriate. You’ll also be aware that it’s possible that it will change on moving day. We’ll go over how your moving quote might be determined and what to watch out for.
The various kinds of moving estimates
Moving estimate that isn’t legally binding. This is essentially the moving company’s best estimate of the cost of your move. Because they misjudged the extent of the relocation, the price could be much higher on moving day, and you will be responsible for the additional charges. On moving day, the mover can only bill you for 110 percent of the initial estimate; the rest will be invoiced to you.
Estimate that is legally binding. To provide firm pricing for your quote, the mover will conduct a far more thorough examination of your moving needs. The mover is obliged to stick to this price as long as you don’t make any significant changes to your move or add merchandise.
Estimate with a no-exceed clause. The estimate indicated in this scenario is the utmost price you may expect to pay, with the option of paying less. Your ultimate cost will be determined by the weight or volume of your shipment, as well as any additional services that are required (packing, extra flights of stairs, etc.).
The procedure for obtaining a moving estimate
A moving company’s approach to providing you with a home moving quote can also differ. After asking you a few questions, a company that offers a non-binding estimate could be willing to give you a quotation over the phone. This is due to the fact that they have the ability to adjust the price on moving day! Your moving quote will be inaccurate if you forget to specify things like a large couch. However, if you’re only moving a few items and are sure in your inventory’s accuracy, this strategy may save you time.
Expect to complete a walk-through inventory with your moving company, either in person or online, for a binding estimate. A virtual walk-through necessitates a little more attention to detail when cataloging your things. Your moving expert, on the other hand, can ask real-time inquiries regarding your home and belongings to ensure they have all the information they want. The moving expert can obtain a good understanding of the layout of your home and what will be needed on moving day during an in-person walk through. The best method to acquire an accurate home moving quote is to do a walk-through!
Services offered as an add-on
Make certain to inquire about what is and is not included in your home relocation estimate. If the initial price appears to be unusually low, there’s a chance anything isn’t included and must be purchased separately. Expenses such as packing supplies and many flights of stairs may be incurred. Here are some questions to ponder:
- Materials for packing and packaging. If you’re having your movers pack your belongings for you, be sure you understand how much packing materials will cost in the initial price. Materials are sometimes provided up to a particular number of boxes, but extra boxes are charged separately.
- Stairs. Some movers include one flight of steps in their estimate, while others do not. Inform your movers if your existing or future home has stairs. Examine your estimate to ensure that everything is written down. This should include the number of flights in both homes.
Long-distance costs. If your building’s layout involves moving items a great distance to the truck, expect to pay more. Your estimate should specify the distance that qualifies something as a “long carry.” This way, you’ll know whether or not to expect this charge.
- Fees for disassembly and reassembly. There may be an additional charge if your movers are forced to disassemble your furniture, gadgets, or appliances. It’s best to inquire about these services in advance. The organization can then send movers that have been trained expressly for this type of operation.
- Fees for shuttle service. Your movers will need to employ a shuttle van if they are unable to bring the truck close to your home for any reason. This adds to the move’s time and effort, as well as its expense.
When should you acquire a moving quotation and how should you receive one?
It’s a good idea to start looking for house moving estimates at least a month ahead of time. That way, you’ll be able to get the movers you want on the dates that are convenient for you. Make sure you get at least three moving quotes so you can compare them. Before making a decision, be sure to ask any questions you may have in order to receive an accurate comparison.
Make a list of everything you need to know, but don’t sign anything until you’re ready to make a decision. Then go with a reputable moving company that provides you with a detailed price and excellent customer service!
By Move Move Movers
