As you start your search for moving companies, getting quotes is an important step to ensure that your move will be within budget. Moving estimates are based on the number of boxes, items, and cubic feet to be moved, as well as the weight of those items. The type of vehicle to transport your belongings will also factor into your costs. To get an accurate moving estimate, movers should visit your home in person or conduct a virtual walk-through to inspect and survey your belongings. In addition, a mover should be licensed and insured to protect your belongings during transit.
When comparing moving companies, make sure they’re licensed and insured by checking their USDOT numbers on the FMCSA website. Then, read customer reviews on Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, and social media to see what other customers have experienced. If you have any specific needs or concerns, ask a moving company to address them during the quote process. A good moving company will be happy to answer any questions and provide clarity about their services.
For local moves, the cost of your move will depend on how many trucks and movers are needed to load, transport, and unload your belongings. For longer moves, the cost is based on the distance of your move and the shipping weight of your belongings. Some movers will offer a binding quote that will not shift unless your inventory changes, while others will use non-binding quotes and collect a deposit before your move date.
During peak moving season, rates will be higher for both local and long-distance moves. If possible, try to book your move during a different time of year to avoid high moving rates. Additionally, consider storing some of your items at a facility prior to your move to reduce the overall moving bill.
Additional services may also impact your moving quotes. For example, if you need to rent a storage unit, add-on insurance policies, or request additional movers, those fees will be added to your total. Similarly, if you are moving a car across the country, extra charges such as tolls and fuel surcharges will be included in your move quote.
Most movers will offer a variety of add-on services to help you customize your move and minimize the stress of relocation. These include packing and unpacking, debris cleanup, TV mounting, and more. While these extras can add up, they’re a great way to save money on the total cost of your move.
In addition to add-on services, large movers such as Allied provide add-on options like full value protection for your belongings. You can select from a range of protection levels, including a basic minimum protection option or the more comprehensive Full-Value Protection.
While a moving company’s initial quote will likely be the most accurate, it may still be a good idea to shop around for other quotes. Compare prices from at least three moving companies to ensure you’re receiving the best price for your moving quotes near me