Whether you are moving 100 miles away or 1000 miles away, getting moving estimates is going to be an essential part of your move. If you have never employed the services of a moving company before, you will need to familiarize yourself with the basic knowledge on how moving companies work and how their services will benefit you. Before you start to get quotes for your move, take a few moments to understand what services are being offered and compare them to the services that you need. That way when you do get moving estimates, you will understand what you are reading and can then compare pricing.
Moving estimates can vary greatly by company. That is why it is so important to do your research before you even begin to get quotes. First, take inventory of what you plan on moving with you to your new home. If you have items such as furniture, toys, or clothing that your family does not need or want anymore—sell them or donate them before the move. There is no use moving unwanted items to your new home, and there is certainly no reason to pay to transport them either. After you have made an inventory list of everything you are taking—you will be able to get accurate moving estimates.
Next order of business you should handle before getting your moving estimates is figuring out if your move is considered a local move, interstate move, or intrastate move. Listed below is a summary of what each move is considered to be.
Local Move: A local move is considered a move within a 100-mile radius, but within the same state.
Interstate Move: An interstate move is a move from one state to another. A move from New York to Florida is considered an interstate move.
Intrastate Move: A move that is over 100 miles away, but still within the same state—you never cross state lines.
Knowing the different types of moves can make a big difference when it comes to getting moving estimates. While local moves are pretty straight forward, the other moves can get complicated. Estimates for local moves are usually calculated hourly with a flat-rate fee charged per hour. Long distance moves get a little trickier. Longer distance moves are generally calculated by miles traveled, weight of your shipment, and any other moving services that you may choose. Some of the service charges that you may see on your moving estimates are:
-Packing/Unpacking Charges
-Insurance Surcharges
-Fuel Surcharges
-Transportation Charges
-Valuation Charges
These are just a few of the different charges you may see on your moving estimates, and again will vary by company. Moving companies offer many other services, in fact, too many services to list. Some of these services such as furniture moving, packing and unpacking, auto transport, storage, and more; are not only convenient, but they are offered to take some of the stress out of your move.
The internet is probably the easiest way to get multiple moving estimates, and it will not cost you a thing. Sites such as this one you are reading now can get you in touch with some of the top movers in the business that are all competing to give you the best prices and service. It is advised that you get at least 3 to 4 moving estimates to get the best deal, and by filling out a simple form here on this site—we can help you get up to 7 quotes all in a matter of minutes.