Moving to a new state is exhilarating. One of the most important parts of a smooth move is getting and comparing interstate moving quotes. This guide will help you understand what to look for, how to compare quotes effectively and how to choose the best moving company for you.
What are Interstate Moving Quotes
Before we get into the comparison process, let’s first understand what interstate moving quotes are. These are estimates provided by moving companies that outline the cost of your move. They include labour, transportation, packing and additional services like storage or insurance.
Quotes can vary greatly between companies so you need to get multiple estimates to make sure you’re getting a fair deal. Also, there are different types of moving quotes: binding, non-binding and binding-not-to-exceed. Knowing these can help you make a more informed decision.
Types of Moving Quotes
- Binding Quotes: A binding quote guarantees the cost of your move based on the items and services listed. If your items weigh more, the price won’t change.
- Non-Binding Quotes: A non-binding quote is an estimate based on the mover’s initial assessment. The final cost may vary depending on the actual weight of your items.
- Binding-Not-to-Exceed Quotes: This is the most favourable type of quote. If your items weigh less than estimated, you pay less, if they weigh more, you won’t pay more than the original quote.
Requesting and Gathering Quotes
When getting quotes, be as specific as possible about your moving needs. Provide exact information about the size of your home, number of items, special items that need to be handled and your move dates. The more detail the more accurate the quotes will be.
Try to get at least three to five quotes from reputable interstate moving companies. This will give you a good basis for comparison and help you spot the outliers—quotes that are way higher or lower than the average.
Key Factors to Consider When Comparing Quotes
Now that you have your quotes, it’s time to compare. But don’t just look at the bottom line. Here are some things to consider:
- Services Included: Review the services included in each quote. Also, cheak does the quote includes packing materials, loading, unloading and transportation. Are there extra fees for stairs, long carries or special items like pianos.
- Insurance: Moving companies are required to offer basic liability coverage, but this may not fully protect your belongings. Always cheak does the quote includes full-value protection and do you need to purchase additional insurance.
- Reputation and Reviews: Price isn’t everything. A cheaper quote might come from a company with a bad reputation. Research each company’s reviews, ratings, and any complaints filed against them by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Licensing and Accreditation: Make sure the moving company is licensed for interstate moves. They should have a valid USDOT number which you can verify on the FMCSA website. Also, look for companies that are members of professional organisations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA).
- Flexibility and Customization: Some companies offer more flexibility in scheduling and services than others. If you have special needs like short-term storage or last-minute changes, consider how each company handles these requests.
Beware of Red Flags
When comparing quotes watch out for red flags that indicate a non-reputable mover:
- Unusually Low Estimates: If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low estimates might be a bait-and-switch tactic where the company increases the price on moving day.
- Large Deposits: Reputable movers don’t usually require large deposits before the move. If a company asks for a big upfront payment, be cautious.
- No Written Estimates: Always ask for a written estimate. Verbal quotes are not binding and offer little protection if something goes wrong.
Making Your Final Decision
After comparing the quotes and considering the above factors, it’s time to make your decision. Choose the company that offers the best value – not the lowest price. The right mover should offer fair pricing, full services and a good reputation.
Final Thoughts
Comparing interstate moving quotes can seem daunting but it’s a crucial step to a successful move. By understanding the types of quotes, getting detailed estimates and evaluating your options, you can choose a mover that fits your needs and budget. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best; consider the overall value and peace of mind when you make your decision. With the right preparation, your interstate move can be smooth and stress-free.