The Importance of Moving Quotes
By Marissa Emery, Moving Consultant, Truck rental.com Staff
Moving expenses can vary greatly depending on what you are moving, how far you are moving, and what moving company you choose. This is why you should always get moving quotes before you hire a company. This applies to truck rental companies as well. All moving companies are required by law to provide written moving estimates, but there are a few things you need to know when you are gathering these quotes.
Get More than One
It is vital that you get more than a single quote when you are looking into various moving companies. You should always seek out at least 6 quotes for each method of relocation that you are considering. This will give you an average idea of what you will have to pay to hire a given type of company.
Companies Versus Agents
Many moving companies have agents that work with them to get more business leads. You should remember that legally moving companies do not have to honor quotes given by agents, so you need to verify in writing that a company will honor a specific quote. If at all possible, get your moving estimates from the companies themselves.
Binding Estimates
If you can, get a binding moving estimate. This is a type of moving quote that is done in writing and is binding. Usually these estimates are higher than their non-binding counterparts because this binds the moving company into completing your move for that specific amount of money. This means that they cannot go over this estimate when it comes to the final charges.
Adding Services
When you are getting quotes from various moving companies, make sure that you mention anything that they might charge you more for. This means that if you have stairs, a piano, or live in a big city, you should mention it to the moving company agent or representative. It would not be good for the movers to be surprised when they show up. Remember, in the end, you have to pay for all of these extra services.
Collecting Quotes
It is not hard to get your hands on multiple quotes. While some companies are quick to respond, others may take their time to compile a quote. Other companies may send someone out to your home in order to get a better estimate of what needs to be moved. This is your best option if you want a quote that is as close as possible to your actual costs. Remember that moving quotes are vital to the creation of your moving budget as well as your choice in who moves you.
