Quotes for moving house are all the same, right? Not so. There are often many differences from one moving company to another with what they offer in their quotes. It’s fair to say that this discrepancy has made more than a few people a little wary about hiring professional movers, especially when the bill comes in higher than expected. This is why we recommend getting at least three quotes before you hire a moving company. But what are you looking for when comparing moving house quotes? Here’s a rundown…
Why get at least three quotes?
By getting at least three quotes, you can make a fair comparison about what you’re getting for your money. It will help you avoid rip-offs, unfair moving fees and hidden costs. What may look like a really good price on paper may end up being an expensive mistake.
The basics: weight, time and distance
The basics of a moving quote are weight or volume, time and distance. The core cost boils down to how much are you moving, how long will it take and how far you are going. It should be a simple equation. Often it’s not.
1. Weight or volume
Make sure you’re absolutely transparent about how much you’re moving, including telling the company about any difficult, large, heavy or awkward items. Many companies charge extra if there are any unexpected additions, or the load is bigger than you estimated.
What’s good? The moving company should take responsibility for assessing your house lot, so the onus is on them to get the weight or volume right.
2. Time
Many companies work out the labour cost in different ways. Some charge a flat rate for time, others charge an hourly rate per mover on the job. Some will do a bit of both, or have a clause about charging extra fees for waiting time.
What’s good? A flat rate. You should know exactly what the move will cost without any variable or extra fees or hidden costs.
3. Distance
Your quote should specify the distance or destination of your move. Watch out for quotes that are based on mileage and fuel costs, as these are variables which could change the cost of the move quite considerably.
What’s good? Again, a flat rate. This puts the onus on the moving company to deliver your house lot in the most efficient and cost-effective way.
Add-ons
There are many additional services around the basics of moving. It’s important to find out what’s included and what’s extra. Make sure you ask each company what you’re getting as standard in the overall fee. Let’s look at some of the add-ons you might want or need.
1. Storage
You may need short or long-term storage as part of your move. Some moving companies don’t provide storage services, which means you’ll need a second provider if you accept their quote.
2. Insurance
Moving insurance is often an extra. Don’t base your assessment on price alone. Read the terms of the insurance, as these will also vary from company to company.
3. Packing and unpacking
Packing services are often a separate cost. You may also need to get your belongings professionally packed for moving insurance.
4. Other services
You might be surprised by the range of services some moving companies offer, including things like cleaning, money transfer, relocation, international moving and much more.
Tips for the unwary:
- Always get the quote in writing. Always. No exceptions. If you don’t have it in writing, you have little leverage if there’s a dispute of any kind.
- If you’re moving interstate, not all companies have the resources to manage your move. Ask if they do before you ask for a quote.
- Quote much higher than the rest? Check they haven’t overestimated the basic calculation or added extra services you don’t need.
- Quote too good to be true? It will be. Look at the variables to see if they match the other quotes. Check for extra fees and hidden costs.
- Check each company’s credentials. Are they licensed or registered? How long have they been around? What kind of reviews or feedback are they getting from other customers?
- Ask questions, ask for details. Make sure all your quotes are based on the same scope and terms for your move. Get it all in writing before you make a decision.
Good luck getting the right company for your move. We hope you’ll include us when you get your quotes.