Professional help can make moving a lot easier, but it can be tough to know where to begin if you’ve never hired movers before. Movers can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the company you hire, how far you’re going and what packing and moving services you select.
Gathering moving quotes gets you started and helps avoid any surprises on your bill, it is recommended to get atleast 3 quotes when moving and never choose based off of the cheaper price look at the companies as a whole
How to get a moving company quote
To get a moving estimate, start by finding movers near you. Different moving companies have varying quote processes, so see what’s available from the movers you’re interested in.
Often, movers provide a simple estimate online and then schedule an in-person follow-up where they can survey your belongings and give you a more detailed quote. Quotes are generally free, but it’s worth checking this to make sure.
Moving quotes vs. instant ballpark estimates
While many moving companies provide instant quotes on their websites, these are really only useful for establishing a ballpark figure of what you’ll spend. Every move is different, so an estimate based on how many rooms your home has can be misleading.
A reviewer from Oklahoma mentioned to consumer affairs once that their original ballpark quote for moving their parents’ belongings was “way off” due to a full attitc they didn’t know about.
This uncertainty is why most companies prefer to see your home in person at some point before the move. As a general rule, you’ll receive more accurate quotes from movers who inspect your home in person.
As a general rule, you’ll receive more accurate quotes from movers who inspect your home in person.”
If you’re moving across state lines, your mover must rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules say interstate movers must provide written estimates and that if you’re moving from within 50 miles of the mover’s (or broker’s) location, they have to base the estimate on a physical survey of your belongings unless you waive the requirement in writing.
How many moving quotes should I get?
We recommend you gather quotes from at least three moving companies in your area. Three quotes are just enough to give some context to the prices you’re seeing and help you spot potential red flags, like a price that’s drastically higher or lower than the competition offers. Gathering more quotes can arm you with even more information, however.
Types of moving estimates
You may hear some unfamiliar terms thrown around regarding moving quotes and estimates. It’s important to understand which type of estimate a company provides — and which type you want.
- Nonbinding moving estimate: A nonbinding moving quote is a document with the mover’s best guess of your moving expenses. Although the actual bill may run much higher than the nonbinding estimate, your mover can only require you to pay up to 110% of the written quote at the time of delivery. You’ll be billed for any remaining charges later.
- Binding moving estimate: If the mover gives you a binding quote, the company is required to honor the price it provides you as long as nothing changes. If you only move the items listed on the inventory sheet, the final price should match what appears on the binding estimate.
- Binding-not-to-exceed moving estimate: A binding-not-to-exceed estimate is the same as a binding estimate, except you'll pay less than the quoted price if your items weigh less than what's estimated.
How do movers calculate cost?
Moving costs are usually calculated differently based on the type of move you’re undertaking:
- Local moves: Local movers typically charge by the hour, though the number of movers needed is also a factor. Additional services and specialized needs in the moving process add to the cost, but you can still expect to get a per-hour estimate.
- Long-distance moves: If you’re moving across the country, your quote will primarily be based on the Volume/Space of your belongings rather than an hourly rate.
However, many factors still play into the total cost you’ll pay for a move, even if they’re not listed on your written estimate. These include:
- The size of your home
- Your location
- The distance you’re moving
- Any extra stops you need
- The time of year
Moving fees and additional costs
In addition to the most common factors that affect moving costs, moving companies charge for extra services or certain conditions that make moving more difficult. Talk to your mover about all the services it charges extra for, and ensure the mover includes everything you need in the quote and on your written estimate
✔️ Stairs
✔️ Long Carry
✔️ Shuttle service
✔️ Packing
✔️ Large Items
✔️ Last-minute changes
✔️ Gratuity ( optionial )