The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote
Anticipating a long-distance move to El Paso? If so, then of course you’ll want to double-check that you're receiving the best value from your residential long-distance moving company. One of the best ways to lock in the best value on long distance movers is to consider several companies. When evaluating the estimates you receive from various companies, however, there are a few vital items you will want to look at closely.
1. Estimate Type
Long Distance Moving estimates usually fall into one of three types:
- non-binding - the final amount you're charged is based on the actuals (amount of time or distance/totoal weight of the shipment, depending on how the professional mover bills) required for your move, which could be higher or lower than your beginning quoted amount may have been.
- not-to-exceed - your total charges are guaranteed to be equal to or less than the rate quoted.
- binding - the price you are quoted is the amount you will pay for your relocation no matter what.
When accumulating estimates, make sure to find out exactly what type of estimate each moving company is providing.
2. Valuation
Most professional movers will work in a small amount of insurance coverage to help protect you from monetary loss if any of your possessions are lost or damaged during transport. The standard rate of coverage is roughly $0.60 per pound, though this can change from one mover to the next, so make sure to verify.
You might also be given the choice to purchase additional coverage, which may be suggested if you have valuable items being transported. It is a commonplace wrong idea that customers automatically get full coverage when they hire a professional mover, so make sure and review coverage prior to selecting a mover.
3. Packing
As part of your long-distance moving quote, packing services might also be included if you ask for them. If you're interested in getting aid with your packing, a lot of moving companies can provide both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you will be provided with professional assistance with particular things that you have earmarked beforehand. Full packing assistance, however, will comprise of full assistance with all of your packing and may even include packing supplies (though this can vary). Make sure to check each company's pack count and verify the service level you want is being quoted for your long-distance move.
4. 3rd Party Services
Make sure and look for exclusions in your moving estimate. For instance, if one company quotes appliance relocation service and another company does not, you wrongly believe that the second company is supplying the best value or lowest quoted price. In actuality, you could be in for an undesirable surprise when the company shows up and breaks the news that appliance service is additional.
While some movers may offer more third-party services than others, it is imperative to double check with each company and get in writing exactly what is included versus what may cost extra.
5. Weight
Lastly, it's important to understand what the estimated weight is and how accurate it is. If there is a large variance (more than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of a shipment, it is possible that the company 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 single long distance move to El Paso is altogether unique. Therefore, we craft our moving services to suit your needs. From our free in-home estimates for the most accurate quote to packing, loading, and delivery services--we can assist with every facet of your long-distance move. Schedule your free consultation or find out more about what we can do for you by clicking here today!