Everything You Need To Know About Getting An Accurate Moving Estimate

When you are preparing for a move, there are a lot of moving parts that factor into your planning, financing, and organization. After deciding where the next place you'll call home is, the most important factor in a move is going to be the cost. You can get an online moving estimate from a local moving company or request a quote over the phone, but before you do those things, how do ensure the most accurate moving estimate that helps you avoid any last minute surprises?

What You Should Be Planning For

With any move comes the obvious, unavoidable expenses. When we tell you that you will need to get boxes, you might say, “Well, duh!” but it is really easy to forget about these expenses when estimating the total cost of your move. These are some necessities that are often not included in your standard moving estimate:

Packing Supplies

You likely already have some storage bins and suitcases that you can use to pack your belongings in, but in all likelihood, you will eventually need to purchase some moving boxes to get everything packed up. Start packing in the storage bins you already own so that you can get an accurate moving estimate of the number of boxes you'll require after those are full. Additionally, you'll want to consider how many boxes will contain fragile items that will need bubble wrap or other cushions to prevent damage. Finally, all of those boxes will require packing tape to be closed securely.

Moving Supplies

If you're not using a professional moving company, some other tools that will make a big difference in your moving estimate will be the actual moving supplies. You may want to rent a dolly, a moving truck, or other supplies that will make your move significantly easier. When you do this, though, you will want to carefully add the additional costs to your moving estimate.

Extra Help

Whether you are hiring professional movers or enlisting the help of friends and family, you will want to be sure to add those costs to your moving estimate. Do some research to determine if it makes sense to hire movers on an hourly basis or a flat rate and how long you might need them to prepare for your move. Additionally, don't forget to include any tips in your moving estimate.

Insurance

There are different price options when it comes to moving insurance and as with anything else, the more expensive options offer more protection. You'll want to determine which moving insurance option makes the most sense for your belongings and include the cost in your moving estimate.

Storage

If your new home isn't move-in ready or there is another factor that may require you to rent a storage unit for your belongings for any duration of time, this is another factor to plan for when estimating how much your move will cost.

Factors That Can Affect Your Moving Estimate

Your moving estimate is just that, an estimate. There are a number of factors that can increase your estimated cost that you may not consider. When you are planning a move, consider these factors:

• the size of your home
• the weight of your belongings
• the number of boxes
• whether or not your belongings are packed
• the distance you're moving
• how long it takes to move
• the time of year you're moving
• any special packing or belongings

All of these things require more work, time, or expertise on the part of your movers, so they can lead to a higher moving estimate. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, whether you're packing hand-me-down furniture or specialty antiques, whether you're moving a studio apartment or a multi-story house can all make a difference in your total estimated costs. Last, but not least, ensure there are no last minute surprises added to your moving estimate by following these tips.

If you're preparing for a move, get a qualified moving estimate from the pros at Amazing Moves.