What Are the Different Types of Moving Estimates?

Last Updated: 
Thursday, October 8, 2020
What Are the Different Types of Moving Estimates?

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    One of the most difficult aspects of planning a move is calculating all the moving costs. Since not every moving company in Los Angeles charges the same for their services, you should try to find the best solution for your moving budget. Take a look at how moving estimates work and how to choose which one is the best option for your moving process.

    Planning the moving budget – how much should it cost?

    When it comes to the moving costs, many people feel regret after the relocation because they overpaid for professional moving services. There is no universal rule about how much a moving process will cost. Your future moving expenses will depend on many factors. For starters, the size of your inventory will be an important factor, and so will be the distance of the move.

    glasses on the notebook
    The first thing you should do when talking to movers is to ask about different types of moving estimates.

    Different moving companies offer different types of moving estimates. The estimate you will get will depend on how the company works and which services you decided to pay for. For example, if you are looking for long-distance moving services, you can choose between a few options. First, you can decide whether you need a full-moving service or not. If you want movers to pack and transport all of your belongings, this will be the best option. However, you can also let movers handle just some part of your inventory. In case you are moving on a limited budget, this will be a budget-friendly solution.

    How to look for moving estimates?

    Before you start looking for moving companies, you will have to understand how their offers work. Since not all movers work in the same way, nor do they provide the same service, it’s easy to get confused while asking for a quote. The first thing you should do when talking to movers is to ask about different types of moving estimates. The most reliable movers in LA provide more than just one kind of estimate. Depending on your needs and the size of your move, you might get offered services in a certain price range. So, let’s explain what type of moving estimates you can expect and how they actually work.

    Moving expenses are the number one reason for stressing out while planning a relocation. If you want to know how to have a successful moving day, the only thing you need to do is to plan in advance. And making a good moving plan requires having your budget prepared. Once you know how much money you can spend on professional moving services, you will have an easier time choosing the right company.

    calculator app on the phone
    you should try to find the best solution for your moving budget.

    Different types of moving estimates to consider

    Take a look at the three most common types of moving estimates you can expect.

    • A non-binding moving estimate is the most common type of moving quote you will get. Most moving companies provide this quote since it’s the easiest to calculate, and this is how it works. Once the movers measure the size and weight of your inventory, they will use this information as a deciding factor. However, non-binding moving estimates are not the best solution for people moving on a tight budget. The initial cost of your move will be just a rough estimation. So, you can expect your moving expenses to pile up at the end.
    • A binding moving estimate means that the moving company you hire guarantees a fixed price of their services. Although this sounds like the best moving estimate to choose, it’s not that simple. In case your moving costs turn out to be less than the movers anticipated, you will still pay the same amount of money you agreed upon.
    • A binding not-to-exceed estimate is the most popular quote you will find. When offering moving estimates like this one, movers will provide a rough estimation of your moving costs. This is the most popular quote for interstate and long-distance moves. If you choose a not-to-exceed estimate, you might pay a little bit more for moving services. However, there is a positive side. If your costs get bigger during the moving day, a moving company will guarantee to cover the remaining amount.

    How to choose between different moving quotes?

    Now that we’ve explained how moving estimates work, it’s time to learn how to choose the best option. Depending on how far away you plan to move and what type of inventory you’re relocating, one of these options might be the best one for you. As one of the most important things you should know before hiring movers, choosing a moving quote might be a complicated task. However, if you find a reliable company that explains the paying process in detail, you should be able to choose wisely.

    If you are moving an expensive inventory, you should choose a quote that will secure your inventory in the best way. However, if you have a limited budget for your relocation, a binding not-to-exceed moving quote might be the smartest option.

    counting dollar bills
    In case you need to relocate expensive inventory, getting moving insurance can save you a lot of trouble.

    No matter which one of the moving estimates you prefer, the most important thing will be to choose movers you can trust. A moving company with years of experience like SOS Moving and Storage Los Angeles will explain how moving estimates work and help you calculate your costs. In the end, honest communication and a professional approach from your movers are the things that will help you organize a stress-free move.

    Don’t forget about moving insurance

    Whether you choose a binding, non-binding, or a not-to-exceed moving estimate, you should always ask your movers about the insurance policy. In case you need to relocate expensive inventory, getting moving insurance can save you a lot of trouble. The most reliable moving companies will explain everything you need to know about moving estimates, help you plan the moving day, and provide safety for each one of your belongings.

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