The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote
Anticipating a long-distance move to Oklahoma City? If so, then of course you want to confirm that you are receiving the best value from your residential long-distance moving company. One of the best ways to get the best value on long distance movers is to get quotes from multiple companies. When looking over the quotes you obtain from various movers, however, there are some critical items you will want to look for.
1. Estimate Type
Long Distance Moving estimates commonly fall into one of these types:
- non-binding - the final amount you are billed is based on the actuals (time consumed or distance/totoal weight of the shipment, depending on how the mover bills) required for your move, which may be more or less than your beginning quoted 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 accumulating quotes, make sure to ask about exactly what type of estimate each company is providing.
2. Valuation
A lot of professional movers will include a standard amount of insurance coverage to protect you from financial loss if any of your belongings are lost or damaged in transit. The standard rate of coverage is usually $0.60 per pound, though this can differ from one company to the next, so be sure to ask.
You may also be provided the choice to purchase additional coverage, which may be recommended if you have valuable items being transported. It's a common misconception that customers automatically have full coverage when they hire a moving company, so be sure and review coverage prior to picking a mover.
3. Packing
As section 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, a lot of moving companies can provide both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you will be provided with professional aid with certain things that you've designated ahead of time. Full packing assistance, on the other hand, will comprise of full assistance with all of your packing and most likely even includes supplies (however this can vary). Be sure to check each company's pack count and confirm the service you are expecting 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 reality, you might be in for an undesirable surprise when the company shows up and informs you appliance service is additional.
While some movers may offer more third-party services than others, it's vital to check with each company and get in writing specifically what's included versus what might be an additional charge.
5. Weight
Lastly, it is important to comprehend what the estimated weight is and how exact it is. If there is a vast difference (more than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of the shipment, it's a possibility that the mover mis-quoted or mis-calculated the weight. Make sure you have a good understanding of who will be responsible for the weight difference, should one occur.
At A-1 Freeman Moving Group, we understand that every single long distance move to Oklahoma City is completely unique. Therefore, we build our moving services to suit your needs. From our free in-home estimates for the most exact quote to packing, loading, and delivery services--we do it all. Schedule your free consultation or learn more about what we can do for you by clicking here today!