The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote

Preparing for a long distance move? If so, then of course you want to make sure that you're getting the best value from your residential long-distance moving company. One of the best ways to find the best price on long distance movers is to shop around for quotes. When reviewing the quotes you receive from various companies, however, there are a few important things you'll want to look for.

1. Estimate Type

Moving estimates generally fall into one of three categories:

• non-binding - the final amount you're charged is based on the actual amount of time (or mileage/weight, depending on how the company bills) required for your move, regardless of what your original quoted amount may have been.
• not-to-exceed - your total charges are guaranteed to be equal to or less than the price quoted.
• binding - the price you're quoted is the amount you'll pay for your move no matter what.

When receiving quotes, be sure to find out exactly what type of estimate each moving company is providing.

2. Valuation

Many professional movers will include a standard amount of insurance coverage to protect you from financial loss if any of your belongings are lost or damaged during transport. The standard rate of coverage is roughly $0.60 per pound, though this can vary from one company to the next, so be sure to confirm.

You may also be given the option to purchase additional coverage, which may be recommended if you have especially valuable items being transported. It's a common misconception that customers automatically have full coverage when they hire a moving company, so make sure and discuss coverage before selecting a mover.

3. Packing

As part of your long-distance moving quote, packing services may also be included upon your request. If you're interested in receiving help with your packing, many moving companies offer both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you'll receive professional assistance with specific items that you've designated ahead of time. Full packing assistance, on the other hand, should include complete assistance with all of your packing and may even include supplies (though this can vary). Be sure to check with each company's pack count and confirm the correct service level is being quoted if you request these services in preparation for your long-distance move.

4. 3rd Party Services

Always check for exclusions in your moving estimate. For example, if one company quotes appliance relocation service and another company does not, you might be led to believe that the latter company is providing the best value or lowest quoted price. In reality, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise when the company shows up and tells you appliance service is an added cost.

While some moving companies may offer more third-party services than others, it's important to check with each company and get in writing exactly what's included versus what may cost extra.

5. Weight

Finally, it's important to understand what the estimated weight is and how accurate it is. If there is a vast difference (greater than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of a shipment, it's possible that the moving company mis-quoted or mis-calculated the weight. Make sure you understand who will be responsible for the weight difference.

At A-1 Freeman Moving Group, we understand that each long distance move is completely unique. Therefore, we custom tailor our moving services to suit your needs. From our free in-home consultations for the most accurate quote to packing, loading, and delivery services--we do it all. Schedule your free consultation or find out more about what we can do for you by clicking here or contacting us at (866) 723-5292 today!