Herlihy Moving Tip: How to Get an Accurate Moving Quote

Moving is complicated, and obtaining an accurate moving quote is the first step in a great moving experience. At Herlihy Mayflower, we do everything we can to accurately estimate the costs of moves so that there are no surprises.

Please keep in mind that the information you share with movers is the key to estimating your moving expenses. To provide an accurate estimate, moving companies need to know:

1. The distance you plan to move.
2. How much furniture and other belongings you plan to move.
3. The layout of your home, including any stairs, narrow passages or landscaping obstacles.
4. The areas in which movers will enter and exit your home.
5. Will you pack up clothing, linens, books, kitchenware, electronics and other belongings on your own, or do you need professional packing services?
6. When do you plan to move?
7. What type of insurance do you want to carry while your possessions are in transit?

Without accurate information, movers may over- or under-estimate the cost of your move.

Instant Ballpark Quotes v. Moving Quotes or Moving Estimates

It’s easy to get confused between an instant ballpark quote and a binding moving quote (also known as a moving estimate).

A ballpark quote is a rough estimate based on limited information that you provide to a moving company. Use instant ballpark moving quotes as a starting point in gauging your moving costs. The actual price that you will pay may be higher or lower depending on the accuracy of the information you provide to the moving company.

For example, if you fill out an online form for a local move, but don’t list all of your furniture or mention that some of it is only accessible via a narrow staircase, the ballpark quote probably will be lower than your actual costs.

A moving quote or moving estimate requires you to provide more information. A moving estimator may need to see your belongings, the layout of your home and the areas in which the movers will enter and exit your home.

If you’re moving across state lines, movers must follow rules established by the U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These rules specify that if you live within 50 miles of your movers, they must base their estimate on a physical evaluation of your belongings, unless you expressly waive that right. This evaluation can take the form of an in-home or virtual survey.

During walk-throughs, estimators review any special requirements that you may have and answer your questions and concerns. Soon after your walk-through, you’ll receive your official moving quote.

When giving you the written estimate, the moving company should also provide a full inventory list of everything they’ll move. The inventory is sometimes called a cube sheet or table of measurements. Get a copy and check it carefully for accuracy. Make sure each piece of furniture is on the list, including smaller items like end tables. It should also include an approximate number of boxes.

Factors That Influence Moving Company Quotes and Prices

Local or Long Distance Move? The estimation process for local and long-distance moves can vary. Pricing for local moves involves an estimate of labor hours and distance between homes, based on an accurate description of the items to be moved and other factors listed above. Pricing for out-of-state moves is based on the weight of your belongings and distance between homes.

Date of your move. Pay attention to your moving date. The day of the week, time of the month and time of year significantly affect moving costs, with higher charges during the busy summer moving season. When you get your quote, ask whether the price would change if you adjusted the date by a few days or weeks.

Distance of your move. Longer moves typically cost more. Moving companies must cover labor, fuel, wear-and-tear and other costs, which increase during longer moves.

Size of your home. A small apartment with a few pieces of furniture will cost less to move than a four-bedroom home full of furniture and other belongings.

Weight of your belongings. Some moving quotes are calculated on weight. Heavier items may lead to higher moving quotes.

Moving Add-ons. At Herlihy Mayflower, we offer a wide variety of add-on services to make your move as easy and stress free as possible. Examples include TV mounting, computer network set-up, debris pickup, cleaning, etc. Ask your Herlihy Mayflower moving coordinator for a full list of additional services and their pricing.

Packing and Labor Costs. If you decide not to pack your items, we offer both full and partial packing options. You can pick which option is best for your preferences and your budget.

Liability Coverage. All interstate movers are required to carry a minimum level of liability insurance. But in case you would like to have more coverage, Herlihy Mayflower includes additional valuation protection. Ask your moving coordinator for details.

Storage Costs. Depending on the complexity of your move, you might need storage for your belongings. Herlihy Mayflower offers a variety of on-site and portable storage solutions. Ask your moving coordinator for details.

Questions About Moving? We’re Here to Help

At Herlihy Mayflower, we have nearly 100 years of experience in moving Ohio families like yours. If you have questions about moving, contact us today.  As one of Ohio’s oldest moving companies, we have moved thousands of families and businesses within Ohio, across the United States, and around the world. We’re BBB accredited and Angie’s List approved. And, as a locally owned and top-rated agent of Mayflower Moving serving Chillicothe, Athens, and Columbus, Ohio, we have the resources to move you, no matter where you need to go.