The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote

Getting ready for a long-distance move to Dallas? If so, then of course you will want to double-check that you are receiving the best rate from your residential long-distance moving company. A preferred way to lock in the best value on long distance movers is to shop around for quotes. When evaluating the quotes you get from various professional movers, however, there are several important items you'll want to watch out.

1. Estimate Type

Long Distance Moving quotes generally fall into one of three types:

• non-binding - the final amount you are billed is based on the actuals (amount of time or mileage/weight, depending on how the professional mover bills) required for your move, regardless of what your beginning estimated amount may have been.
• not-to-exceed - your total invoice is guaranteed to be equal to or less than the price quoted.
• binding - the price you're quoted is the amount you will pay for your move no matter what.

When receiving quotes, be sure to find out precisely what type of estimate each company is providing.

2. Valuation

Most professional movers will incorporate a small amount of insurance coverage to protect you from financial loss if any of your belongings are lost or damaged during transport. The standard rate of coverage is roughly $0.60 per pound, though this can change from one company to the next, so make sure to ask.

You might also be given the choice to buy additional coverage, which may be recommended if you have valuable items being moved. It is a common misunderstanding that customers automatically have full coverage when they hire a professional mover, so be sure and examine coverage before selecting a mover.

3. Packing

As a portion of your long-distance moving quote, packing services might also be included if you ask for them. If you are interested in receiving assistance with your packing, some moving companies can provide both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you will receive professional aid with specific items that you've designated beforehand. Full packing assistance, on the other hand, will encompass total assistance with all of your packing and may even include packing supplies (though this can vary). Make sure to double check each company's pack count and confirm the correct service level is being quoted for your long-distance move.

4. 3rd Party Services

Be sure to look for exclusions in your moving estimate. For instance, if one moving company quotes appliance relocation service and another company does not, you wrongly believe that the second company is providing the best value or lowest quoted price. In actuality, you might be in for bad news when the company shows up and tells you appliance service is an added cost.

While some movers will offer more third-party services than others, it's imperative to verify with each company and get in writing precisely what's included versus what may cost extra.

5. Weight

Finally, it is vital to comprehend what the estimated weight is and how precise it is. If there is a vast difference (greater than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of a shipment, it is possible that the mover mis-quoted or mis-calculated the weight. Make sure you ask who will be responsible for the weight difference, should one occur.

At A-1 Freeman Moving Group, we recognize that every long distance move to Dallas is altogether unique. Therefore, we build our moving services to fit your needs. From our free in-home consultations for the most accurate quote to packing, loading, and delivery services--we can help with every aspect of your move. Schedule your free consultation or find out more about what we can do for you by clicking here today!