Do you consider moving more costly at the beginning or end of the month? During the summer or winter? Moving is already a huge task logistically. On top of that, planning for it financially can be an even bigger task. That depends on how far your move will be and how large your home is. Try our moving cost calculator and get in-house cost estimates of your next move.
Getting estimates
Once you have a list of potential movers, the next step is to contact them to get in-house cost estimates. It is very important to get in-house cost estimates that the companies will write and sign. That way there is no disagreement later about what were the terms of your agreement. Get estimates from at least three different companies. That way you can also compare their services and prices.
If a moving company you are considering refuses to give you an in-home estimate and claims he can provide an accurate estimate over the phone or online without ever seeing your possessions – choose another mover. Moving consultants are trained to identify any issues with stairs, low hanging tree branches, or other barriers. They can provide a more accurate estimate of your total weight through a visual examination.
Be cautious when choosing a moving company
When picking a mover, you will have to demand estimates from several different companies. You will have to compare their quotes and the services they offer. That way you will find the one that best suits your move. You will see that there are two different ways that companies provide estimates to their customers: over the phone and in-person. You need to find affordable movers that will save your money.
Choosing the in-person estimate is the best choice
When picking the in-person estimate, the moving company will come to your home. They will estimate your inventory and provide you with the most accurate one. In-home estimates are recommended in most cases unless you’re making a last-minute move and are on a tight schedule.
When the movers come to your home to conduct in-house estimates, give them a list of all the things you are planning to relocate. Also, allow them to fully assess your belongings so that they can give you a fair and accurate estimate. You don’t want any surprises when the moving day comes. This should make the movers raise their price.
How to get a reliable in-house cost moving estimates
If you want to get a reliable estimate you should call the moving company to come to your home to make a list of what needs to be moved. The moving company will send a surveyor to your house when it comes to in-house moving estimates. Then, the surveyor will make a list of all of your possessions. If you operate this way, the moving company will know exactly what needs to be moved and how to manage it. Now the mover should have a good idea of how much exactly the relocation will cost. Then they will be able to give you an exact estimate. Be wary of moving based only on a moving quote. It could be a moving scam or fraud. Or the moving company might end up charging you hidden fees.
How in-house cost estimates work?
In-house cost estimates are usually more structured and organized than estimates that you get over the phone. They also tend to be much more precise. That’s because moving companies can’t always get the full picture of what needs to be moved over the phone. Provide them a complete checklist and description of your requirements. However, even then it’s hard to get a firm grasp of the full expanse of the job unless you study it in person.
In-house estimates usually are executed in these ways:
- The client will contact a moving company and request a quote. The sales agent on the phone will then set up an appointment. He will tell when the movers can come out to the customer’s house. The first time
Ask the movers if there will be any extra charges they’ll come to take a look at the items that will move.
- Once the movers come for the estimate, they will go through your home carefully and check each room. Often, they will make notes of what is included in the move. Also, they will estimate the total weight of the shipment.
- When they are done with the examination of the house, the movers will set a price which is based on all of the elements involved. This estimate can be one of three different types of estimates: a binding, non-binding, or binding not-to-exceed estimate. About this, you will have to talk to your moving company.
What should you ask your mover during an in-house estimate?
When the movers arrive at your home to provide you with an estimate, it’s also an excellent time to ask the movers any questions. You will probably have questions about the estimates. Here are the most important questions you should go over with the movers:
- What kind of estimate will I be receiving? A binding estimate, a non-binding estimate, or a binding not-to-exceed estimate?
- Will the estimate be provided in writing after the assessment of the move and my belongings?
- Are there any other fees or charges that I should know about? (e.g. extra charges for long carries, stair carries, etc).
- Do you have a US DOT number? Can you verify your license and insurance?
- How long has your company been operating for?
- How will you handle my goods during the move? What kind of safety precautions do you take to ensure that my belongings are moved safely?
- Do you have a claims process for any lost or damaged items?
- When will my belongings be delivered?