How to Get the Best Local Moving Quotes
When moving to a new home, one of the most important elements to consider is the cost. Whether you’re going down the block or across the county, finding the best local moving quotes is a must to help budget your move.
The cost of movers will vary by the type of move and what services you require, but most companies will offer a basic, non-binding estimate to give you an idea of how much your move will likely be. Some factors that impact your local move quote include the size of your load, travel costs, add-ons and services, and the day of the week.
Generally speaking, local moves are less expensive than long distance or national moves. This is because most movers charge by weight instead of time, so the fewer items you have to move, the lower your moving quote will be. Whether you’re planning an interstate move or a cross-town local move, hiring an experienced, licensed moving company is a smart way to save on your relocation costs.
A few ways to get the best local moving quotes are by reducing your load size and choosing an affordable date. If possible, donate or sell unused items before your move to reduce the amount of clutter in your household and lighten your load. Also, by selecting a moving date during the off-season or on a weekday instead of the weekend, you can cut down on travel costs.
When getting local moving quotes, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and services offered by several different movers in your area. You should be able to find reliable, professional movers through word-of-mouth recommendations or online reviews from past customers. The BBB can also help you determine if a company has a solid track record and is reputable. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, make sure the movers are insured and have a U.S. DOT number by using the search function on the DOT website.
Depending on the size of your move, your moving quote will include either an hourly rate or a flat rate. If you’re moving an apartment or a small house, the hourly rate is likely to be your best option. However, if you have a large, four or five-bedroom house with furniture and appliances, a flat rate may be more appropriate to ensure the movers are compensated for their time. In addition, if you need additional services like packing, storage or special handling for heavy or fragile items, these will usually add to your overall moving costs. To avoid any surprises, you can request an in-home estimate from your movers to see exactly what services will be needed. This will also give you a better idea of what your final move will look like and allow you to ask any questions you might have.
