Choosing Wisely: How to Compare Moving Quotes

The Big Decision: before you compare moving quotes

Life offers us a lot of choices each day. When it comes to moving however, there is one big decision that will determine the entire fate of your relocation: which company to hire.

Your choice will be based on a lot of factors but for most people there is only ONE major aspect that matters, the price quotation.

So in order to get the best prices, people get several quotes. The most ideal is to have at least three contenders so you can compare each package.

Comparing One Quote to Another

Step by step guide on how you can actually compare between the movers’ offers

1. Consider the moving company.
   Before you even look at the quotes, you may want to consider the company that gave it to you first. Do they have all the necessary permits and accreditations? What is their BBB rating? Do I know people who have been their customers in the past? These are only some of the questions you should answer.
2. What’s included in the package?
   Find out exactly what is including in each base rate. Some companies charge extra for boxes and moving materials while others offer them for free. Call and ask about the exact details of the basic package.
   
3. What are the additional costs?
   Most companies won’t tell you that you will need to pay extra if the movers need to go up a flight of stairs, or if they have to walk far from your driveway. You may also have to pay for the transport of fragile items and for specific types of furniture. Ask about any additional costs that you may incur and write down the prices for these services. Consequently, ask them about any services that they offer for free.
4. Liability and insurance
   Determine each will be liable for. If you’re asking them to transport fragile items, you may want to consider inquiring about insurance. Also, there are some companies that will only be liable for items if you hire them to pack the items in addition to transporting them. This will cost you a bit extra.
5. Take a hard look at the estimates
   Most companies will give you an estimate either via email or phone. Of course these are only estimates and can never be an actual gauge of how much you will have them transport. Ask for an on-site estimate (personal visit to your home) so that you can have a clearer view of the price before the project begins.
6. Ask about their Refund Policy
   Ask what their refund policy is. Should you need to concel, would you need to pay anything? Will they refund your initial deposit (if any)?

Moving involves serious money and before you make your investment, you have to consider each quote carefully. There are indeed a lot of choices for you but to make the best decision, you have to ask the right questions and know what to look for.