Online moving quotes are a convenient way to get an idea of what your move will cost. However, it’s important to understand how they work so that you don’t fall victim to any sneaky charges.
If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Read on to learn more about getting accurate online moving quotes.
How to Get an Online Moving Quote
Getting a moving quote is a crucial first step in selecting a professional mover that suits your budget. It’s recommended that you gather at least three moving quotes to compare prices and services. This can help you spot red flags, such as a quote that’s significantly higher or lower than the competition.
Most movers will contact you after you request an online quote to schedule an in-home survey and inventory of your items. This allows them to get a better sense of the size and weight of your shipment. In addition, they can assess any extra services you may require or moving complications such as steep stairs.
Some companies offer binding estimates, which are also known as guaranteed not-to-exceed quotes. This type of estimate protects customers by stating that they will not be charged more than the original quote, regardless of how much their shipment ends up weighing. Other movers will provide nonbinding estimates, which can be more flexible.
Factors That Affect Quotes
There are a few key factors that can influence your moving quote. For example, the size of your home will play a role in how much it will cost to move your belongings. A minimalist living in a studio apartment may have fewer items, while someone who lives in a large four-bedroom house will have more belongings that require extra care and handling.
Additionally, the distance of your move will impact costs as well. Typically, the farther your move is, the more expensive it will be. Additionally, the time of year you plan to move can also impact your moving quotes and prices. Moves during the summer months are usually in high demand and tend to be more expensive than moves during other times of the year.
Some online movers will ask you to fill out a form on their website or provide a virtual tour of your space to estimate how much it will cost to move your items. Other companies will offer a binding estimate, where they will set a price based on the estimated weight of your belongings and any add-on services you might need like packing or storage.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
An accurate moving quote is crucial for a successful move. It’s important to request quotes from multiple movers and compare prices. This will help you spot red flags like a company with wildly different prices from the competition.
A full inventory of your belongings is also required in order to receive an accurate quote. Some companies offer online inventory forms, while others will conduct an in-person walk-through of your home to survey your items. For interstate moves, this is a requirement under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules.
A guaranteed not-to-exceed estimate is one of the most common and helpful types of moving quotes. This means that if your shipment actually weighs more than estimated, you’ll pay only for the actual weight. This helps prevent unexpected charges and surprises, which can be stressful during a move.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When it comes to getting moving quotes online, you should look for red flags that may indicate a potential scam. One of the most common is if a company doesn’t have a physical address or license number on their website. Another red flag is if they only provide non-binding estimates, which means your price could change on moving day.
It’s also important to look for reviews from previous customers, especially if they have specific problems with the company. Also, try to find reviews on third-party websites rather than the company’s own site.
Finally, you should always be sure to get a quote in writing. This can either be binding or nonbinding and should specify the services that are included in the price. You should also be sure to read the contract carefully and understand the terms of service, including any additional charges. This will help you avoid being ripped off by unscrupulous movers. It’s worth taking the extra time to do so because it can save you a lot of money in the long run.
