Getting moving quotes is a critical step in planning your move, determining a budget and choosing a reliable relocation partner. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to have the movers come in and see what you’ll be bringing, or at least provide pictures and videos of your items. However, if that is not feasible, you can still make a ballpark calculation based on the size of your home and your items. Other factors include whether the move is local or long-distance, and what services are required.

Most moving companies offer online estimating tools that can be used to get a ballpark estimate, and many will need additional information, such as the date of your move, your address, and an inventory list. Then, a company representative will contact you to go over the details of your move and answer any questions. Some movers may request to make a virtual tour of your home to determine the scope of the job and assess any special circumstances, such as stairs or a full attic. Others may simply ask for a detailed picture and video of your belongings to get an apples-to-apples estimate.

It is important to understand what the different types of estimates are and how they differ, as this will impact your costs. For example, a local mover will usually charge by the hour for their services, while a long-distance mover will most likely charge based on weight. The best option is to go with a company that offers both options and is transparent about their pricing, so you’re not surprised on moving day by unexpected charges.

In addition, you’ll want to know if the quote is binding or nonbinding. A binding estimate requires the company to honor the price it gave you so long as nothing changes during the move, and it’s legally enforceable. A nonbinding estimate is simply the company’s best guess of your total cost, and you can expect it to be much higher than your actual bill, which is based on the shipment’s weight.

Another factor that can impact moving quotes is the time of year. Peak moving season is typically during the summer, when more people are moving and there are more movers available. If possible, try to plan your move for a less busy period, such as during the fall or spring.

Lastly, it’s important to get multiple moving quotes from different companies to find out what prices are typical in your area. This can also help you spot any unusually low prices that could be a sign of a scam. You can also use the pricing information you gather to compare movers’ prices and services and choose the best one for your move. In addition, getting multiple quotes will help you become familiar with how reputable movers typically operate and become suspicious of any unusual practices, such as asking for large deposits or upfront payment, not providing in-home estimates, using generic terms, etc. get moving quotes