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Moving Estimates

While not the sole consideration for selecting an NYC moving company, a moving estimate definitely affects your final choice. The moving cost calculator is based on various factors. Knowing what these factors are, and understanding what a cost estimate actually entails, could give you a rough idea of how your mover works out the total cost of the move, also available is a storage calculator which helps you with your boxes counting per unit size

Ask for an on-site inspection of your property

To begin with, remember that one estimate is not enough. Obtain several offers, from several moving companies, and compare them. Since moving estimates are usually free of charge, you should not hesitate before contacting additional movers. While many companies provide online cost estimates – based on data you submit via the company's website - this does not suffice.

An accurate moving quote must be based on an on-site inspection of your property, and certainly attests to a mover's professionalism and reliability.

Which item do you plan on shipping? Don't forget to tell your mover!

In order for your mover to provide an accurate estimate, he must be thoroughly aware of each and every item you plan on shipping. When your mover arrives for an on-site inspection, walk him through your house and point out every piece of property that is to be transported. Apprise him of those items that are temporarily not in your house, but which you plan on moving anyway.

Determining the type of moving estimate

It is extremely important to determine with your mover whether yours is a binding or non-binding estimate. The latter is basically a cost approximation, which, although based on the mover's inspection of the goods, is eventually determined by the weight of your shipment, and is thus likely to change. At times movers propose an hourly rate estimate, which is also not-binding and which is actually based on the carrier's past experience with similar moving jobs.

The binding estimate is based on an accurate inventory of the items you intend to ship. As suggested by its name, the calculated sum is indeed binding, even if your cargo weighs more or less than anticipated. If the original inventory in any way changes, i.e. - if you add items to the shipment - or if you request that additional services be rendered by your mover beyond those originally stipulated, the estimate will be updated accordingly before your belongings are loaded onto the moving vehicle.
An even better estimate option is the "not to exceed" binding estimate, which basically enables you to add more items to the shipment, providing they do not surpass the agreed upon estimate. Yet another advantage to this particular type of quote is that if the total weight of your shipment is lower than the one originally estimated, you will pay less.

Whatever your decision, make sure it is clearly put down in writing.

Final moving costs

Bear in mind that the final price you will eventually be required to pay may differ from the initial estimate. Indeed, the actual sum is liable to be affected by a variety of factors. An unexpected change of destination, lack of elevator access, physical or geographical constraints that the mover had not been aware of - be it limited road access or building restrictions - could all impact the cost. Even unforeseen Acts of God such as fire and earthquakes could take their toll on the final sum. To prevent possible price fluctuations, try to be as accurate as you can when providing your mover with the relevant information, making sure you do not overlook any details which could eventually affect the moving estimate.

To find out more about moving estimates – contact us

We would like to thank Mover New York for their professional guidance while building this site.