How To Compare Moving Quotes Like a Pro

A big residential or business move can be both an exciting and daunting process. This new chapter in your personal or professional life will come with a number of logistical challenges that you must be prepared for. That’s why you should always consult with an experienced and well-reputed professional mover. However, when it comes to understanding moving quotes, you might discover that not all moving companies are created equal. That’s why we have assembled this thorough guide on how to compare moving quotes like a pro. 

1. Request Multiple Moving Quotes

Don’t rely on one or two quotes when it comes to making your big decision. If you truly want to understand moving quotes, you will need a comparison. By having two or more quotes at hand, you will be able to compare these beyond cost alone.

You should also begin to see something of an average sum or estimate. With several quotes to work with, this means you will be able to eliminate the outliers, those companies whose prices are suspiciously low or needlessly high. This approach will ensure that you don’t overpay or succumb to a mover that cuts corners or suggests hidden fees along the way. 

Also, be sure to insist on an in-home survey rather than an over-the-phone estimate. You will want to meet personally with the people who will be temporarily responsible for all of your most valued possessions. Anything short of a professional response to your business request should be ignored. 

2. Get Deep with the Details

As you compare moving quotes, it’s easy to focus on the lowest estimate. This is where you need to scrutinize. Moving quotes can be complicated as they offer a range of services, fees and conditions that might not be immediately obvious.  

As an example, some companies might fail to include notable services such as packing materials, furniture assembly and reassembly. The cost of moving specialty items or keepsakes might also be purposely vague or omitted. Some may be hourly vs. billing the whole project. The point is to make sure you are comparing apples-to-apples and not just deciding on cost alone.

Other extra fees can include fuel surcharges as well as an additional charge for stairs, elevators or “long-carry” moves. Also, storage fees can apply if your belongings need to be temporarily stored out-of-home. All reputable movers should also offer some level of insurance but you will likely note that coverage and deductibles can and will vary. Be sure to ask about basic liability and full-value protection options. 

3. Do Your Due Diligence

If you’re going to compare moving quotes like a pro, you need to understand the source of each quote. That’s why we highly recommend that you consider a moving company’s track record and reputation. Start by taking a closer look at online reviews such as Yelp and Google. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is also a solid source of information when it comes to gaining insight into past customer experiences. When scouring reviews, you should pay close attention to feedback patterns centered around complaints about hidden fees or broken items. On a more positive note, be mindful of comments that suggest professionalism and punctuality. 

You will also want to make sure that the company is licensed and insured. Interstate moving companies are required to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration so this would be a good starting point in that regard. For local moves around Texas or the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you can check with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. 

4. Understand Moving Quote “Types”

Not all moving quotes are the same in terms of how “binding” they may be. That’s why you should understand the difference between binding, non-binding and not-to-exceed estimates. 

A binding estimate locks in your quoted price based on current inventory assessments. If you are to ask for or add any additional services you can expect that cost to change accordingly. A binding quote or estimate gives you more certainty and protects you from unexpected price hikes. 

A non-binding quote is an approximation. While common, this type of quote can leave you vulnerable to higher charges. Variations in the actual moving cost can depend on weights and specific services. 

A Not-to-Exceed estimate is often the best option for your move. If your move ends up weighing less than anticipated then that can work in your favor as you will pay less than the estimate. However, if it weighs more, you are protected by the “not-to-exceed” guarantee and will not pay above the agreed upon price.

Knowing the difference means that you will be able to understand moving quotes as they are presented to you by multiple moving companies. This is essential when it comes to making an informed decision on one of the most important chapters in your life. 

In summary, when you need to compare moving quotes remember that the lowest price doesn’t necessarily make the most agreeable choice. We do live in a “get what you pay for” world. Conversely, the highest price doesn’t guarantee high quality or solid protection of your valuables. If you really want to compare moving quotes like a pro, make sure that you know who is submitting and what those estimations cover from start to finish. Also, familiarize yourself with the many “types” of quotes so that you truly understand the overall cost of your residential or business move. 

If your next move is coming up, please let us know how we can help. IMS Relocation has been serving our satisfied clients for more than 30 years and are happy to help you better understand our quote, and even help compare with others you might be considering. Start by contacting us to get your free quote today.