When it’s time to start planning your move, you will have a lot to do. Beyond the decluttering and organizing you’ll need to do before you move, you will probably want to find a reliable, affordable, professional moving company to help you with packing, moving, and unpacking. There are a number of reasons why you should get multiple quotes before moving, to make your move a little less stressful.
Type of Moving Estimates
When you start the process of requesting estimates, you may see some unfamiliar terms. There are three basic types of moving estimates that you should understand before you start comparing costs.
If you get a binding estimate, your mover will have to honor the price they provide you as long as nothing changes between the time they quote and your actual move. If you are only moving the exact items as listed on the mover’s inventory sheet, your final cost should match what you will find on the binding estimate.
A non-binding estimate, however, only gives you the mover’s best guess as to the cost of your move. Your final price will be determined by the weight of the shipment and by which services the mover provides you. If your actual bill is higher than the non-binding estimate, you’re only required to pay 110 percent of the written estimate at the time of delivery. The balance will be billed to you.
Similar to a binding estimate, a binding not to exceed estimate will ensure that you will pay less than the mover’s quote if your items weigh less than they initially estimated.
Considerations for Choosing a Mover
To find the right mover for your particular situation, you’ll need to do some research. You’ll want to be sure your mover has the skills and experience you need and that they are trustworthy professionals who can take good care of your possessions. You can check customer reviews to see what others think about their experience with the company. You can also research legal and business sites to be sure the company is legitimate and solid.
A great way to get to know your potential moving company is to request a moving quote. There are a number of other reasons why you should get multiple quotes before moving, which can help you in the planning process.
Determine the Average Cost of Your Move
Requesting multiple quotes can help you get a better understanding of what’s fair in the industry. Many price estimates will be similar, so you can determine, on average, what the cost will be. You will also know, if you get an estimate that is much lower or much higher than the others, that you need to research more about the company itself. Although a higher price may mean better quality, there could be other reasons a particular company’s quote is higher than the others.
Connect with Available Moving Companies
Although most moving companies have websites that provide information about their services, getting in touch with them personally can help you understand more about how they operate. Requesting a quote is a simple and convenient way to make that first contact so that you can start communicating with reputable movers that may possibly suit your specific moving needs.
Compare Moving Companies
Analyze the multiple quotes for moving, comparing them in terms of price, services, special discounts or conditions for the fee. Carefully review each company’s service fees, additional charges, and tariff costs. Narrow your choices down to three or four professional companies that appear to offer you the best overall deal.
Once you have their moving quotes in hand, take the time to visit the company’s website, find out how long they’ve been in business, read online reviews, and check the company’s rating with the BBB and other business organizations. This information will help you compare the moving companies so you can choose the one that is best for your needs.
Set Up a Realistic Moving Budget
You don’t want any surprises when it comes time to move. Getting multiple quotes before moving will help you set up a budget, so you’ll know what to expect. Include in your budget the costs for packing supplies if you are going to pack yourself, any necessary insurance, traveling expenses if you are moving long distance, as well as any relocation costs such as utility deposits. Setting a realistic budget once you’ve found a reputable, professional moving company will significantly reduce your moving stress!
Contact Fox Moving and Storage for Help with Your Next Move
At Fox Moving and Storage Charlotte, we offer you a free quote so you can include it in your moving budget. Our professional movers can help you plan, pack, move, and unpack your treasured possessions so you can move to your new home stress free.
At Fox Moving and Storage Charlotte, we are your trusted, locally owned movers. We will help you take care of everything involved in your next move, so you won’t have to worry. Contact Fox Moving and Storage Charlotte today to learn! Simply give us a call today at 980-207-2998 and find out how we can help you.