The Anatomy of a Long Distance Moving Quote

Getting ready for a long-distance move to San Antonio? If so, then of course you need to confirm that you're getting the best value from your residential long-distance moving company. A smart way to lock in the best rate on long distance movers is to consider several companies. When looking over the quotes you receive from various companies, however, there are some important things you will want to look at closely.

1. Estimate Type

Long Distance Moving quotes usually fall into one of these types:

• non-binding - the final amount you are billed is based on the actuals (time consumed or distance traveled/totoal weight of the shipment, depending on how the professional mover bills) required for your move, which may be more or less than your initial estimated amount may have been.
• not-to-exceed - your total charges are 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 relocation no matter what.

When receiving quotes, be sure to note precisely which type of estimate each moving company is providing.

2. Valuation

Many 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 roughly $0.60 per pound, though this can differ from one company to the next, so be sure to verify.

You might also be provided the option to purchase additional coverage, which may be suggested if you have valuable things being transported. It is a commonplace misunderstanding that customers automatically have full coverage when they engage a professional mover, so make sure and examine coverage before picking a mover.

3. Packing

As part of your long-distance moving quote, packing services might also be included upon your request. If you're interested in getting aid with your packing, many moving companies offer both partial packing and full packing services. With partial packing, you will be provided with professional assistance with certain things that you have earmarked ahead of time. Full packing assistance, however, will include total assistance with all of your packing and most likely even includes packing supplies (however this can vary). Make sure to double check each company's pack count and confirm the correct service level is being quoted for your long-distance move.

4. 3rd Party Services

Be sure to check for exclusions in your moving estimate. For example, if one company quotes appliance relocation service and another company does not, you jump to the conclusion that the second company is providing the best value or lowest quoted price. In reality, you might be in for an undesirable surprise when the company shows up and informs you appliance service is an added cost.

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

5. Weight

Finally, it's important to look at what the estimated weight is and how accurate it is. If there is a large variance (greater 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. Make sure you understand 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 San Antonio is altogether unique. Hence, we custom tailor our moving services to fit your requirements. From our free in-home consultations for the most exact 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!