What to Look For in a Moving Quote

Moving day is often stressful enough as it is, so the last thing you want is a surprise hike in your moving cost. You can set proper expectations by getting moving quotes ahead of time and by understanding not only what kind of moving quote you’re getting but also what’s included in that price.

Types of Moving Estimates

An online moving calculator might be helpful in giving you a ballpark figure for average moving costs, but there are still lots of variables that can change the final price of a move depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Your best bet for an accurate estimate is to schedule a walk-through with your mover so they can survey your old and new properties and factor in as much as possible based on the realities of your situation.

Non-Binding Moving Quote

A non-binding moving estimate is typically a sight-unseen ballpark guess based on past experience. It’s meant to give you a rough idea of how much you may end up paying, but the final price will likely be different. The moving company is not required to pay a non-binding estimate.

Binding Moving Quote

A binding moving estimate is guaranteed as long as you don’t change the scope of the work. You’ll be required to pay the quoted price regardless of whether the actual cost comes in above or below it. And if you request the mover to do more than what was quoted, you can expect to pay the difference.

Binding Not-to-Exceed Moving Quote

This is one of the most favorable moving quotes offered by professional movers, and it’s often used with long distance moving when costs are less certain. A binding not-to-exceed moving estimate still carries a guaranteed maximum price, but if the actual moving cost comes in lower than expected, you’ll realize those savings and pay the lower amount.

Free Moving Quote

Give Advanced Moving a chance to prove we’re the best moving company in the Sioux Falls area. To get started on a free moving quote, fill out our online non-binding move request form. Once we agree on the details, we can lock in a binding moving quote.

Parts of a Moving Quote

All moving estimates vary by moving company, but these are the components that have the greatest influence on the price of a moving quote. For the best possible moving experience, be prepared to provide accurate information for each component. Not sure what’s all involved? Check out our general moving checklist.

Distance

The distance you’re moving has a pretty direct relationship to the cost of a move, with a local move usually being more affordable than a long distance move. Local movers have fewer constraints and less need for specialized equipment, while the logistics for a long distance mover can get quite complex. And if you’re planning to make any extra stops along the way, be sure to communicate that as early as possible.

Home Size

Each moving service may calculate this in their own way by asking for the number of bedrooms or total rooms you want moved, the approximate number of items to move, or even the total weight of your belongings. Ultimately, moving companies will determine how many people and moving trucks they’ll need to provide on moving day to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Date

The timing of your moving process can affect the price you’ll pay, especially if your moving window is narrow or you want the work done in the evening or during the weekend. The more flexibility you have to get your things moved, the better.

Season

Similarly, seasonality plays an important role within the moving industry. Demand is higher in the warmer months between late spring and early fall.

Location

The physical location of both your old home and new home is a factor as well, depending on how many stairs or flights of stairs movers have to walk up and down, as well as how close they can park the moving truck and whether there are any other obstacles in their way.

Specialty Items or Add-On Services

Expect to pay more if you have large or fragile items that need to be moved, or if you require services beyond loading and unloading, like:

• Packing: You can request a full or partial packing service and have your movers do all the work for you, or you may be able to purchase packing supplies and pack some or all of the moving boxes yourself.
• Assembly/disassembly: For large tables, desks, shelves, or other furniture, some disassembly and reassembly may be required to get them out of your house.
• Storage: For long distance moves, local moves with a gap between move-out and move-in, or downsizing moves, temporary storage may be needed. This may involve facilities the mover owns or you may choose to get a moving container on your own.
• Extra protection: A professional mover will insure your belongings during transit at a limited level, but you might also opt for extra protection through a full-value insurance policy.