The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote

Getting ready for a long-distance move to Atlanta? If so, then of course you will want to make sure that you are receiving the best quote from your residential long-distance moving company. One of the best ways to find the best price on long distance movers is to consider several companies. When looking over the estimates you get from various professional movers, however, there are a few important things you'll want to watch out.

1. Estimate Type

Long Distance Moving estimates mostly fall into one of these categories:

• non-binding - the final amount you're charged is based on the actuals (amount of time or mileage/totoal weight of the shipment, depending on how the mover bills) required for your move, which could be higher or lower than your original estimated amount may have been.
• not-to-exceed - your total invoice is guaranteed to be equal to or less than the rate quoted.
• binding - the price you're quoted is the amount you'll pay for your move no matter what.

When gathering quotes, make sure to ask about precisely which type of estimate each company is providing.

2. Valuation

Most professional movers will build in a basic amount of insurance coverage to protect you from financial loss if any of your possessions are lost or damaged during transport. The standard rate of coverage is normally around $0.60 per pound, though this can change from one mover to the next, so make sure to verify.

You may also be provided the option to purchase additional coverage, which may be recommended if you have valuable things being transported. It is a common misconception that customers automatically have full coverage when they engage a moving company, so be sure and talk about coverage before selecting a mover.

3. Packing

As section of your long-distance moving quote, packing services might also be included upon your request. If you're interested in receiving aid with your packing, many moving companies offer both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you'll receive professional assistance with certain items that you have appointed ahead of time. Full packing assistance, however, should involve total assistance with all of your packing and most likely even includes supplies (however this can vary). Make sure to check each company's pack count and verify the service you are expecting is being quoted for your long-distance move.

4. 3rd Party Services

Be sure to check for exclusions in your moving estimate. For instance, if one moving company quotes appliance relocation service and another company does not, you wrongly believe that the second company is providing the best value or lowest quoted price. In reality, you could be in for bad news when the company arrives and tells you appliance service is an additional charge.

While some companies will provide more third-party services than others, it's important to verify with each company and get in writing precisely what is included versus what may cost extra.

5. Weight

Finally, it's vital to understand what the estimated weight is and how precise it is. If there is a vast difference (more than 10%) between the estimated weight and actual weight of a shipment, it's a possibility that the company mis-quoted or mis-calculated the weight. Be sure you ask who will be responsible for the weight difference, should one occur.

At A-1 Freeman Moving Group, we understand that every long distance move to Atlanta is completely unique. Therefore, we craft our moving services to fit your requirements. From our free in-home consultations for the most accurate quote to packing, loading, and delivery services--we can help with every aspect of your move. Schedule your free consultation or find out more about what we can do for you by clicking here today!