Moving Estimates: Facts You Ought to Know

Planning a move can be taxing, and getting a significantly inaccurate estimate makes a relocation so much more stressful. Estimation is not an exact science, but a proper approximation shouldn’t be way off.

To help you distinguish trustworthy movers from unscrupulous characters and ultimately avoid a bill shock, you need to be aware of the facts about moving and storage estimates.

Estimates Are Not Equal

The reliability of an estimate depends on its nature and method of delivery.

Ask for a binding or binding-not-to-exceed estimate to prevent the other party from overbilling you and provide an incentive for getting the approximation as accurate as possible. The two are the same, except that the latter allows you to pay less than the quoted price.

Moreover, over-the-phone and online estimates carry no weight. Only a written estimate can hold up in court.

Honesty Makes Estimate Accuracy

Help your moving company conduct a visual survey during an on-site estimate. Be forthcoming about all the belongings you intend to bring with you. Bulky, heavy and oddly shaped items require extra care, so inform the estimator about them to include them in the computation.

Extra Services Lead to Inflation

It’s not uncommon for movers to offer extra services to accommodate the unique packing and handling needs of different items. It would be wise to consider such recommendations for professionals could anticipate from experience the challenges you may have not realized.

Of course, additional work costs more money. Although supplemental offerings are usually worth the expense, you ought to prepare yourself for a higher estimate or ready to accept the risk of forgoing them.

Your Calendar Influences Cost

Demand affects the pricing of movers. If you insist on squeezing your date of relocation into your moving company’s schedule during peak season, the privilege will cost you more cash. You’ll likely save money if you’re flexible with dates.

Want to have more confidence in your moving estimate? Pick a licensed, insured and bonded mover like Around Town Movers. Call us at (703) 682-5922 to book your free in-home consultation in Sterling, VA, or Washington, DC!