12 Critical Tips For Reading Any Move Estimate

Moving Estimate

I’ve never met anyone who likes moving, and I expect to die with a perfect record in this regard. It’s a hassle, but life happens, and if your move is due to a promotion or upgrading to a newer or larger home, it’s not the only downside. That said, details like move estimates are seldom given the attention they deserve. Understanding the details of your loan estimate and some simple move terminology can help you minimize the damage to your sanity and your pocketbook. After helping thousands of people move over the years, here are my top 12 tips for reading your move estimate...ignore at your peril.

Double-check your personal information

Make sure your name and addresses for your current and future addresses are correct. You definitely don’t want your stuff going to Jones Avenue if you live on Jones Street!

Confirm all dates related to the move

Look over the packing and moving dates. Typically, a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house takes a day or less to pack and another day to wrap furniture and load it up. Ideally, these should be back-to-back days.

Check the weight estimate

Find the part that shows the estimated weight of your stuff. Most other costs will be based on this. If one company gives a weight estimate that’s way off (like more than 1,000 lbs different), ask why. While movers usually estimate a bit higher than the actual weight, one scam that is used a lot by moving companies is overpacking boxes with paper to increase the total weight under the guise of “preventing damage.”

Review the delivery window

See the estimated delivery range. Most interstate movers promise to get your items to you within three weeks. Some might be faster. Ask your driver for an estimated arrival date when they load your stuff, and exchange phone numbers in case of delays. Look for any kind of guarantee that everything will arrive by a given date. 

Consider packing services

If you’re in Phoenix, Inspired Organizers can pack, unpack, and organize everything for you. If you are in another state, consider an organizing company to take care of this task and potentially coordinate the entire move for you. 

Choose your valuation

Movers must offer a minimum of $0.60 per lb for lost/damaged items, but I suggest opting for Full Value Protection. IMPORTANT: This doesn’t apply to items you pack yourself (PBO). I always recommend that owners keep anything they are packing themselves separately until moving day and labeled PBO to protect them when everything else is packed by the moving company. Have movers pack fragile items to ensure coverage.

Look for accessorial charges

These are extra costs for things like bringing in a smaller truck if your place is hard to reach. Movers can check your location online to see if a shuttle is needed.

Check for extra charges

Look at the notes for any additional costs. This might include charges for crating high-value items like artwork or heavy mirrors. There could also be fees for removing items attached to walls or ceilings.

Get contact info

Write down your sales rep’s name, company, and contact details. Reach out if you have any questions or if you declutter a lot before the move, as this might lower your overall cost. Make sure that you have everything regarding the details of the move documented to eliminate any assumptions you might have.

Read the total charges

Look at the estimated total and all the associated line items. It should include things like packing/unpacking, transportation, and any accessorial charges.

Know your estimate type

Ask if your estimate is “binding,” “non-binding,” or “assured price.” Binding estimates are fixed; they won’t go up or down. Non-binding estimates give a rough idea but aren’t guaranteed—never sign one. Assured pricing means you pay the lower of the estimate or actual weight/tariff.

Ask about any discounts

The mover may offer special discounts to Veterans, Students, Seniors, off-season moves, AAA members, or other categories that you may qualify for. 

Take the time to understand your estimate to eliminate surprise costs and delays. Asking for recommendations from trusted friends and family will often result in a better move than just going with the first Google search result. Last of all, take a breath…it will be over soon!