The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote

Getting ready for a long-distance move to Little Rock? If so, then of course you want to confirm that you're getting the best rate from your residential long-distance moving company. A preferred way to lock in the best price on long distance movers is to shop around for quotes. When looking over the quotes you receive from various companies, however, there are some critical things you will want to look for.

1. Estimate Type

Long Distance Moving estimates generally fall into one of three categories:

• non-binding - the final amount you are charged is based on the actuals (time consumed or distance traveled/weight, depending on how the company bills) required for your move, regardless of what your beginning estimated amount may have been.
• not-to-exceed - your total charges are guaranteed to be equal to or less than the price quoted.
• binding - the price you are quoted is the amount you'll pay for your relocation no matter what.

When accumulating estimates, be sure to find out exactly what kind of estimate each mover is providing.

2. Valuation

Many professional movers will incorporate a small amount of insurance coverage to help protect you from financial loss if any of your things are lost or damaged during transport. The standard rate of coverage is roughly $0.60 per pound, though this can differ from one company to the next, so make sure to confirm.

You might also be given the option to purchase additional coverage, which may be recommended if you have valuable items being moved. It is a frequent misconception that customers automatically have full coverage when they employ a moving company, so be sure and review coverage prior to picking a mover.

3. Packing

As part of your long-distance moving quote, packing services may also be included if you ask for them. If you're interested in getting help with your packing, many moving companies can provide both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you will be provided with professional aid with particular items that you've appointed ahead of time. Full packing assistance, alternately, should encompass complete assistance with all of your packing and most of the time will include packing supplies (however this can vary). Be sure to check each company's pack count and verify the correct service level 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 jump to the conclusion that the second mover is providing the best value or lowest quoted price. In reality, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise when the company shows up and informs you appliance service is an added cost.

While some companies will provide more third-party services than others, it is important to double check with each company and get in writing precisely what is included versus what will be an additional cost.

5. Weight

Lastly, it is important to understand what the estimated weight is and how exact it is. If there is a vast difference (greater than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of a shipment, it is a possibility that the moving 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 each long distance move to Little Rock is completely unique. Hence, we build our moving services to suit your requirements. From our free in-home consultations 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!