Questions To Ask Your Estimator

Questions To Ask Your Estimator

After your initial questions to potential moving companies have been answered, the next step is to receive an estimate from the companies you have narrowed down, and may be interested in hiring. In addition to Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company, you will also want to ask your estimator further questions and reconfirm some that have already been asked.

When receiving the answers to your questions, remember, it’s not only the answer that is important; it’s also how it has been answered. Has the company representative shown integrity, and explained in a way that you understand all the answers?

Do You Provide On-Site Estimates?

Having an in home survey (on-site) is the only way to receive an accurate estimate. When you are in communication with the moving company, ask if they provide on-sites. In most cases, this is the best way to receive a quote. However, not all moves will require an on-site. On occasion, an on-site may not be possible due to varying circumstances: customer is unable to be present; a move is last minute, or perhaps even a tight schedule. If this is the case, not to worry, all companies will have a professional team of estimators available to provide a quote online.

When opting to have an on-site, confirm it is a free service. Most moving companies do not charge when providing in home estimates.

What Kind Of Estimate Will I Receive?

There are three types of estimates in the moving industry:

Non-Binding – If the actual weight and services are less than the written estimate, you will pay less. If the weight and services exceed the given estimate, you will be required to pay the difference.

Binding - A binding estimate is essentially a “fixed price”. You agree to pay the amount quoted by the moving company for transportation of your items, regardless of the actual weight.

Binding Not to Exceed - A binding not to exceed estimate can also be referred to as a guaranteed quote. You either pay the estimated price or the actual price, whichever is less.

Receiving a quote via phone or email will generally be non-binding. Whereas having an in home evaluation will provide you a binding or binding not to exceed estimate. You can review Types of Estimates for further information.

What Is Considered An Extra Charge, And Is It Included In The Quote?

Once you receive your quote, confirm it includes any extra charges, if applicable. Extra charges vary and may include:

• Packing services
• Long carry charges
• Flight charges
• Shuttle service
• Parking
• Fuel
• Storage
• Appliance charges
• Awkward objects

If you will be moving any heavy, or awkward items check they are equipped to move these items.

How Long Will The Pick Up Process Be? And How Long Will Delivery Take?

Depending on the size of your move, and if you have hired the moving company to provide packing services, will determine the amount of time the movers will take to load the truck. Knowing the time it will take allows you to make any arrangements if needed, for such things as: childcare, pet care, or time off work.

Confirm the company’s delivery time frame of your items to the destination. Each company may have a different answer. Be cautious of the answers. You don’t want a company that promises delivery in a very short amount of time, and a company that gives you too large of a window, may be subcontracting your belongings without you knowing about it.

Local moves can usually be completed in 1 day. Intrastate moves between 2 – 7 days, and standard delivery for long distance moves is between 1 – 2 weeks. Reading How Long Will it Take For my Items to be Delivered can provide additional information.

Do You Provide Insurance?

Asking about, and understanding moving insurance is important. Ask the estimator to explain in detail your options. Find out what insurance the moving company offers, and what it covers. If they only provide basic insurance, how is additional insurance obtained, if needed? Understanding the details of Moving Insurance is advisable.

What Happens In The Event That Something Gets Lost Or Damaged?

Ask if there is a claims department, what is the process and how is reimbursement handled, should any items arrive damaged or get lost in transit.

What Forms Of Payment Are Accepted?

Any reputable moving company will accept credit cards. Be sure to check if there are any restrictions on any major credit card companies. Wire transfers and cash are usually accepted. Be wary of any company that will only accept cash.

Ensure you are clear about the amounts due as a deposit, at time of pick up, and upon delivery.

What If The Move Needs To Be Rescheduled Or Cancelled?
Knowing in advance the company policy on rescheduling or cancelling a move is advised. Should something unforeseeable come up, knowing the procedure could save you time and money.

Now that you’ve asked all these questions, does the estimator have any questions for you? For a successful move, the moving company needs important information, and some of this information comes from your answers to their questions.