8 Tips on how to get an accurate moving estimate
Whether you’re hiring a mover for a local, international, or long-distance move, it can get costly. It’s crucial that you know how to get an accurate moving estimate. Coming across the wrong mover can get you in a jam that can end up costing you more than just money. In this article, we will provide eight tips on how to get an accurate moving estimate, avoid scams, and what to look out for. You should also understand why people end up paying more than their moving estimate.
1.Check Company History
The first step in getting an accurate moving estimate is finding the right company. Calling a move before doing any research is putting yourself in danger of being scammed. Salespeople are crafty and know what to say to secure your payment. Rather than believing a trailed salesperson do some. Research and check company history.
You can use the DOT, SAFER website as a tool to get some insight into a companies history. It will provide years in business, license information, and the amount of complaints a company has received. After you check the DOT website, you can then do some online research to check out what other people have to say.
2.Get a Visual Survey
A visual survey is when a mover will send a representative to your home to create an inventory list. Only after that will they provide you an accurate quote. Phone surveys can also be accurate, but only if you’re specific on what you’re planning on moving. It can be challenging to provide a mover with a precise list while walking around your house. A survey is an excellent way on how to get an accurate moving estimate. Check out this article on hiring a mover vs. renting a truck.
3.Get a Virtual Survey
A virtual survey is an app that you can use on your phone to calculate the volume/weight of your move. The artificial intelligence was created in 2018 and is ninety percent accurate, which makes it the most precise way of obtaining a moving estimate. You would download the app, point the camera, and boom. All of your household goods will be uploaded along with the sizes. International Van Lines provides virtual surveys.
4.Check Online Reviews
To have a positive moving experience, you’ll want to check online reviews. However, understand that companies years in business and size play a role. As an example, a company that has 200 trucks and has been in business for 30 years will naturally have more complaints then a smaller company that just opened its doors. Looks can be deceiving so do further research before you commit. Check out this article on how to pack for a move.
5.Know What you’re Moving
A big mistake people make is calling a mover before they’re sure of what they’re moving. Before you start comparing moving companies, you should create an inventory list of what you’re moving, so there are no surprises. Moving estimates are based on weight/volume so if you end up having more on the day of pick up, you will end up paying more. Spend the time and narrow down what you want to move and what you can get rid of.
6.Professional Packing vs. Self-Packing
Before calling a mover for a moving estimate, you should determine whether or not you’re going to pack. Self-packing is a great way to save money, but it’s also a lot of work. You can purchase packing supplies directly from our website, or go to any local Home Depot. Keep in mind that if you require packing supplies on the day of pick up, you will end up paying for it. So, before you commit to self-packing, make sure you can handle the job. Check out this article on the average cost of hiring a mover.
7.Know Your locations
It’s important to understand where you’re moving from and to. Most metropolitan areas will require shuttle service or a long-carry. A shuttle service would need the foreman to transfer your household goods into a smaller truck for delivery. A long-Carry is when the truck is parked 75 plus feet away from your location. To get an accurate moving estimate, you should educate yourself on the sites.
8.Go With Your Gut when getting a moving estimate
There are many sleazy salespeople in the moving industry. Under no circumstances should you hire a mover that makes you feel pressured. Moving is already stressful, and the last thing anyone wants to deal with is shady sales tactics. If you feel uncomfortable with your relocation coordinator run.
