Moving Company Estimates - The Essential Elements of Mover Quotes and Estimates

What You Need to Know When Comparing Moving Company Estimates

By Diane Schmidt, About.com Guide

When comparing moving company estimates, there are some essentials that you should keep in mind, essentials that will help you decide which mover is right for your household move.

1.        Non-Binding Versus Binding: Moving companies not only vary by cost, but they also vary in the way they calculate that cost. Some companies will offer you a rate based on pre-estimated weight, or what is known as a non-binding estimate. Other movers may base their rate on a binding estimate, that is, provide you with an estimate that is firm; the amount quoted is what you pay. This differs from a Not-to-exceed estimate which means that the final cost of your move will not exceed the amount that the movers quoted and that you previously agreed to. However, the amount could also be less should the weight of your move be less than originally estimated by the mover. There are other rules around each type of estimate, which you can read in detail in the articles on binding estimates and non-binding estimates, but generally, before you decide on a mover, know the types of estimates available to determine which will work best for you.

While the most common estimate type is the Not-to-Exceed estimate, remember that most movers will overestimate how much the move will cost. This may make it more difficult for you to compare prices between moving companies, however, it also assists in ensuring that you do not go over budget; knowing the top end price that you'll pay, helps to know the true cost of your move.

2.        Weight: Compare the difference in price per pound or kilo between movers. It is easier to assess differences in price if you find out up-front how much a mover charges per pound/kilo. It is important to note, however, that weight charges alone should not be the only determinant of cost. The other elements listed here, including charges for distance and additional services need to be also taken into consideration. Sometimes companies will charge more per pound, but include more services in their estimate. Weight charges should be only one consideration when comparing moving companies. And remember, it's a good idea to get rid of unwanted items before you move. Not only will you save money, but time packing and unpacking these items.

3.        Distance: Distance is key to determining the true cost of a move. Ask the mover how much they charge per mile or kilometer and remember that these costs, often referred to as alinehaul charges, are on top of the weight costs. Using an online mapping guide such asGoogle Maps or MapQuest, figure out the true distance you'll be moving. Compare this to the amount the moving company has quoted to ensure that the distance they've estimated matches your own. Distance estimates should be taken into consideration along with weight estimates. Again, some companies will charge more for distance and less for weight or vice-versa. Distance costs will play a larger role in your decision if you're moving to another city, state or country. If you're moving to another neighborhood, distance may not factor into your decision.

4.        Extra Service Fees: You don't need to consider extra services if your move is straight-forward without any items that require special handling, for example. Just remember that while some extra service fees can be anticipated, such as needing to move a piano, storage-in-transit fees if your new home won't be ready to move into right away or if you requireadditional insurance, there are some fees you might not anticipate. These are usually fees charged because you neglected to notify your mover of certain obstacles, such as flight charges, or long carry. Find out which services you require and what service fees you can avoid before determining which mover will work best for you.

Source:  http://moving.about.com/od/movingcompanyfees/a/essentials_mover_estimates.htm



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