Estimates

Estimates

Estimates are an estimation of what you will pay a professional moving company to move your items. They allow you to see the cost breakdown and have an idea of what you will expect to pay come moving day.

Each move is unique; therefore each quote for moving will be unique. Estimates are tailored to the individual move. They are an important component of your planning process, as they allow you to make comparisons and find a mover that is right for you.

All reputable moving companies offer both in home estimates and phone or online estimates. To make sure your estimate is done correctly, ensure the estimator has thoroughly gone through every space in your home or inquired into every space, if obtaining a quote by phone or email. Make sure you tell the representative everything pertaining to the move, including layout of locations at both pick up and delivery.

In Home Estimate

An in home estimate, also referred to as an on-site in the moving industry, is when a representative from a moving company visits your home, office or any place planned to be moved and provides a quote based on a visual inventory. Reputable moving companies will offer this service for free.

With smaller moves, or moves that are only going a short distance, having an in home estimate is not always necessary. However, no matter the size, having an accurate in home estimate is always beneficial.

To provide an accurate estimate, the representative will need to see everything that is being moved. They will need access to all spaces, including: basements, attic, and the garage. If you have a garden or outside area, this should also be accessible. The estimator will do a walk through looking in cabinets, closets, anything that contains movable items.

It is advisable to be present for the in home estimate. This may not be possible and you will need to ask a friend or relative to help you out. Being there allows you to ask questions and meet the “face” of the company you are considering. The representative will have important information to provide you, along with the estimate. They will probably have questions for you too, ensuring they are aware of all the details to be outlined on the estimate, so no misunderstandings occur.

Benefits Of Having An In Home Estimate

• Receive accurate estimates from reputable moving companies and reduce the risk of being overcharged by unscrupulous companies.
• Allows the representative to see and take note of the environment and anything that may pose a problem come moving day. The crew can arrive prepared, saving time, and potentially saving you money on any extra costs not accounted for.
• Items and storage spaces can easily get forgotten. Estimators know where to look!

Phone And Online Quotes

While these two methods are not the preferred, there are some situations where they are very useful.

Phone and online quotes are ballpark quotes. They are not the final price; they provide you with a general idea. This estimate is based upon the information you provide. Therefore, providing as many details as you can on what is being moved along with quantity, size, and relevant information will be of great benefit in receiving a quote as accurate as possible.

If providing your inventory online to receive an automatic quote, it is recommended you contact the company directly and speak with a representative to verify all information inputted is correct, and discuss in further detail what the move entails and all charges that may apply.

Benefits Of Receiving A Phone Or Online Quote

• If you have a small move with not much inventory, this may be an easier, time saving option.
• When having to move at short notice, receiving a phone or online quote guarantees immediate service, and allows more freedom in securing a pick up.
• Simplicity. If you do not have the time or perhaps do not reside in the space, than receiving a quote via phone or online may be your only option.

Things To Look For In The Estimate

The estimate you receive must be in writing. It is your responsibility to look over the details and know what services are being provided for the agreed upon fee. If something is not written on the estimate, you should not presume it is included.

Never sign an estimate with blank or incomplete areas.

The company must provide you with the booklet “Your Rights And Responsibilities When You Move” which is created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).