If you’re planning a move, chances are you have your fair share of practicalities to take care of. You may be searching for boxes, packing materials, and someone to take your old dresser off your hands. You may even be looking for friends that you can tempt with some snacks and drinks, in an effort to get help with packing.
With all of the things you’re hunting down, a mover shouldn’t add to the equation. Thankfully, online quotes can help connect you with an affordable, reliable mover easily.
There are a few factors that can influence the cost of your moving quote. The more information you have for your mover, the less surprises you’ll find in the end. Planning ahead also enables you to get clear, comparable quotes so you can select the right moving company. Here are some things to include in your online quote request:
Distance
Especially true for interstate or cross-country moves, the distance you’re traveling can have a big impact. Long distance moving companies calculate the distance they’re traveling and use this to determine the price they quote. While local movers quote based on the number of people and hourly rate, travel time will play a factor.
Volume
This is perhaps the most important factor that companies consider when providing a moving quote. The amount of stuff you have impacts not only the amount of time to move, but the equipment needed, size of the truck, and number of people required to do the job. It’s always a good idea to downsize before a move, to save time, money, and unpacking unused items.
If you have large items such as a piano or a pool table, include them in your online moving quote request. The same goes for bulky or awkward furniture or large pieces of artwork. You’ll want to be sure your moving company has the right equipment to handle these items with care.
Accessibility
If it’s difficult to access your current or new home, mention this in your request. Moving companies may charge and additional fee for properties that are less accessible. Some accessibility factors you should be sure to mention include:
- Long walking distances between the parking and home entry
- Flights of stairs
- Narrow doors and hallways
This is an often overlooked factor when submitting an online quote request, and is crucial for an accurate quote.
Packing and Unpacking
Many professional movers will offer a service to pack your items at your current home, and unpack them in your new one. Not only does this save you the hassle, it also ensures everything is safely packed. Moving companies charge either by the hour or by the item. They will also include a charge for materials such as boxes and packing supplies. Your mover can also pack only what is more delicate or challenging. If you have heirloom furniture, artwork, or fragile items, ask for a quote on these items only.
Scheduling
Moving companies typically have peak seasons and even days of the week. Moving on weekends, the first or last day of the month, or a holiday can mean higher charges. Movers also see more demand for their services (including trucks) in the spring and summer months. If you can help it, moving mid-week, mid-month, in autumn is a great way to save money.
When it’s time to plan your move, online moving quotes are the easiest and simplest way to find a moving company. With Unpakt’s online quoting tool, you can compare quotes from trusted local and long-distance movers.
