Meeting with a moving company and getting an accurate moving estimate is one of the best ways to start your journey confidently. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare for a moving estimate ensures you’ll get the most out of it and the most accurate figure. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your moving estimate experience.
Before Scheduling a Moving Estimate
While every move and timeline is different, it is recommended that you prepare for the estimate first. The amount of preparation you do before the estimate will significantly increase the accuracy. However, if you aren’t sure of your plan yet, you can get multiple estimates written for various scenarios.
To be prepared for your estimate, follow these best practices:
Declutter
Go through each room and sort items into categories like “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” or “Discard.” This will make the process less complicated. It also ensures that the estimator only includes items you truly plan to move.
Make Selections
After decluttering, you should know what you are taking with you. Note things that “Go” and “Stay” or other options like “Storage” or “Owner Will Take.”
Make a Plan
Now that you’ve figured out what will be moved, figure out when you will move. Get the date of when you’ll be ready or need to move by. (If you need to move soon, call and ensure the move date is available before scheduling an estimate). Also, determine if you need any packing services or storage choices. If you are unsure, you can ask for options during the estimate.
Come Up with Questions
A lot will be on your mind, so writing down any questions beforehand will help you remember them all. Of course, you can always call with more questions after the estimate.
Scheduling a Moving Estimate
An estimate typically takes 30 minutes, but you should allow for at least an hour. The duration depends on the home’s size, the items’ complexity, and the move itself.
Estimates can be typically booked two days in advance during the slow season. However, during the summer, in the busy season, you should schedule an estimate at least a week in advance.
You should book the estimate as soon as you are ready. This will allow you as much time as possible to get other estimates and lock in your date sooner.
Moving companies typically have a few estimate options:
- In-Person
In-person estimates are the preferred method and are the most accurate. They lead to a more thorough job, and you get a better feel for the company.
- Virtual
Most companies will offer a virtual estimate if requested. It is best for situations in which the client has a compromised immune system or is located far away.
- Revisit
Some companies offer revisits. They may want to come out again if they visited many, many months ago, or if your plan changed, and now it includes significantly more or significantly fewer items. If things have changed, call to see if they would like to revisit to be sure your job is handled correctly and with no surprises.
During the Moving Estimate
At the estimate, you will provide a tour of your home and point out everything that needs to be moved. The estimator will walk with you and take notes on the items you’re moving, any special requirements, and any potentially challenging areas.
Here is what should happen during the estimate:
Give Tour
Mention all belongings and where they are going, i.e., “Go,” “Stay,” “Storage,” etc.
Give Additional Information
Point out fragile or high-value items, like artwork or antiques, as these may need special handling or preparation. If there is a weak point on an item or anything they should know that may help keep an item safe, be sure to inform them.
Advise about Properties
Apprise the estimator of the current property and the new one. Detail the access, such as stairs, elevators, parking, long walks, or tight hallways, as these may impact the time and therefore cost. All insight can help prepare the movers and assist with the move.
Discuss Logistics and Scheduling
Confirm the plan with the estimator during this time. If your move involves multiple days or multiple pick-up and drop-off points, make sure to settle these details. Discuss your move date(s) and figure out any logistics that may be involved.
Ask Questions
Now is the time to ask all the questions that you may have. Be sure to get insight into how to best prepare for your move and pack, if applicable. Also, now is the time to get to know the moving company. Ask probing questions to get a feel for the moving company before you set off on this journey with them.
Understand the Quote
Typically, the estimator will write the estimate right there on the spot and explain the breakdown. It would help if you asked questions to understand how they got to that number and ensure there won’t be any surprises when you get the actual invoice.
Use this opportunity to understand what’s included in the estimate and ask about anything you’re unsure of, like cancellation policies, if there might be any additional fees, whether a deposit is needed, etc.
It is important to know that most estimates are non-binding and are subject to change based on the rate. You can talk with the estimators if there is a budgetary concern, as some will work with you. However, with moving, a job’s difficulty is reflective of your preparation, especially when the owner packs. So, typical estimates are non-binding to protect the moving company from situations in which more work was caused by a lack of prep that was out of their control.
After the Moving Estimate
Consider Getting More Moving Estimates
If you are not set on using a particular company, then getting multiple estimates is a good idea. This is the best way not only to compare pricing but also to get a feel for the company and the work they do.
Compare Moving Estimates
If you get multiple estimates, it’s essential to look at not just the price but also the quality you will receive for that price. Saving a few bucks may not be worth it if your belongings are lost or damaged. On top of that, the cheaper moving companies tend to be the hard ones to work with. So, be wary if one moving company is way cheaper than the others; this may be a red flag. Check reviews and ask around to ensure you get a reliable and thorough moving company.
Confirm with Your Moving Company
When you have made your choice, contact the moving company to confirm and lock in your move date. The sooner this is done, the better, as it is typically “first come, first serve” with the move dates.
Get Ready for Your Moving Estimate
Preparing for a moving estimate doesn’t take long but can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth move. By providing detailed information, being transparent about your needs, and asking questions, you’ll have a clear understanding of what’s involved and a fair expectation of costs. With a bit of preparation, your moving estimate can be the first step toward a stress-free moving experience.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to request a free estimate.
