Important Information Regarding
Questions to Ask the Moving Estimator
When meeting with the estimator give
them the best and most accurate
information because you will receive a
much more accurate and specific estimate
for your move.
1. Have the Estimator meet you at your home. Show them exactly what you want moved. Make sure the Estimator see what's in the shed, garden, attic and basement. If your friend is borrowing something that is not in the home at the time the Estimator comes, you'll want to make sure you tell the Estimator this too if you plan on moving it. During this time inform the Estimator which items are high in value both monetary and sentimental. Also, let them know which items you are most concerned about. If you have a few locations you are considering moving to, ask them to quote the move to each location.
2. Tell the Estimator you'd like to know how they will be calculating the price of your move. Find out if there are any additional charges such as moving a piano, going up or down narrow stairs, using elevators or lack of elevators, longer carries or shuttle services should their truck not be able to access the road or if there are building restrictions preventing the movers from pulling up as close as possible. Know and understand what the estimate includes and doesn't include.
3. If you know you have additional items in other locations such as your home and a storage unit you will need to notify the Estimator of any extra stops that require their help (pick up and drop offs). Also depending on closing dates or rental terms dates, ask the Estimator if there will be any storage options and what those charges might be and for how long.
4. Have the Estimator put their estimate in writing. If possible, request a binding or not-to-exceed estimate. If you get one low estimate, ask them why that estimate is low. Perhaps that Estimator did not see things that the other Estimators did see. If that Estimator is comparing apples to apples than ask him to make it binding and put it in writing.
5. Ask the Estimator what your payment options are. Options could include: cash, bank & traveler's checks, credit cards or personal checks.
6. If you're concerned about the amount of insurance coverage the Moving Company offers, make sure to purchase additional insurance. Do this especially if you have valuable items. Anytime you can eliminate stress when you move is a good thing. If you purchase additional insurance coverage you will have one less thing to worry about. Make sure that your Movers are licensed and bonded.
7. Make sure to get a contact person from the moving company to help you when your questions arise.
8. Make sure the estimate includes timelines. It could be very costly if you need to stay in a motel and go out to eat every night for two weeks because your moving company comes two weeks later than expected.
9. The price of the estimate should never be the deciding factor. The reputation and references of the moving company along with the price should help you to decide which company you are more comfortable with.
10. Get at least three estimates. A detailed Estimate is free and you should see what each company can do and how they do things differently. Phone and Internet estimates are difficult for a mover to guarantee. A mover cannot properly estimate your job unless he can see exactly what has to be moved.
11. There are some reasons why an estimate could vary from the final price. You have to be ready for unforeseen variations such as: access problems at either location, destination changes for whatever reason, moving long distances can lead to restricted truck road access, building moving restrictions that were not explained properly such as dedicated moving elevators, acts of God such as fire, water, snow earthquake that could delay the move.
12. Act in good faith. Your mover will want to do a great job because they want you to refer your friends and family to them when they have to move too. If you have any questions about the estimate or final price, ask the Estimator how they came up with that price. If something is not clear, ask questions and then document your conversations. Documenting conversations include: date, time, person you spoke with as well as what the conversation included.
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