Free Online Moving Quotes: Compare & Save

• Inventory list: Make a list of the major items and the approximate volume of everything you plan to move. This helps movers gauge the weight or size of the shipment.
• Required services: Decide if you need extra services, such as packing, unpacking, storage, or special handling (for pianos, vehicles, etc.). Movers will include these in your quote if you request them.
• Move details: Be ready with your moving dates, origin and destination addresses, and home size. This basic info is usually required for any moving quote.
• Budget and questions: Consider your budget and note any questions you want to ask the movers. Preparing questions ensures you won’t forget to compare important details later.

• Call or email local movers: You can find local movers and contact them individually to request an on-site estimate or an online quote.
• Fill out quote forms on mover websites: The best moving companies have online quote request forms. You’ll input the same details (move size, dates, locations) for each company, along with your contact information, then get a call or email with your quote.

• Licensing: For interstate moves, verify the mover has a valid USDOT number (required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and any state licenses for in-state moves. Reputable movers will display these on their website.
• Insurance: Confirm the company is insured. All legitimate movers should offer basic liability coverage at minimum.
• Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, the BBB, and our Better Moves reviews. Consistent complaints are red flags.
• Years in business: Experience can be a plus. Long-established companies might be more reliable, but newer companies can also be good if they have strong reviews and credentials.

• In-home estimates: A moving company rep does a walk-through of everything you’re moving. They’ll assess the volume or weight of your items and note challenges like stairs or large furniture to create a binding quote that won’t change. This is also a great way to meet the mover in person and ask questions.
• Virtual surveys: If an in-person visit isn’t an option, many movers offer video call walkthroughs. Live video estimates are the next best thing to in-person walkthroughs and can still get you accurate quotes.
• Why not rely only on instant quotes: Instant online quotes or over-the-phone quotes without seeing your home are convenient, but they might leave out details and lead to surprises later. Always follow up an online quote with a survey before you finalize your choice of mover.

• Services and fees: Check that each quote clearly lists the services provided, like loading, transport, unloading, and storage. It should also outline any extra fees, such as fuel surcharges, long-carry fees, or stairs/elevator fees.
• Move details: Each quote should specify your origin and destination, the inventory or estimated weight of your items, the number of movers/trucks, and the planned move date(s). These details allow you to confirm the quote covers everything you discussed.
• Insurance coverage: Find out what level of liability coverage is included. Most quotes include released value protection (basic coverage at ~$0.60 per pound per item), but you may have the option to upgrade to full value protection for an extra cost. A quote with a higher price might include full-value insurance, which could be worth it.

• Binding estimate: The mover guarantees the price they’re quoting will stay the same as long as your inventory or services don’t change. This offers peace of mind since you only pay the agreed amount.
• Non-binding estimate: The price is an educated guess. The final cost will be determined by the actual weight or hours on moving day. Your final bill could be higher or lower than the quote, but by federal law, it can’t exceed 110% of the estimate for interstate moves.
• Binding not-to-exceed: Also called a “guaranteed not-to-exceed” quote, this is a hybrid of the types of quotes above. If the weight or time is less than estimated, you pay a lower cost; if it’s more, you won’t pay more than what you were quoted.

• Price vs. services: Look at what you get for the price. One quote might be slightly higher because it includes packing services or more insurance, while another is bare-bones. Make sure you’re comparing the levels of service each quote offers.
• Company reputation: Weigh the companies’ reviews and professionalism in your decision. It might be worth paying a bit more for a mover with great reviews rather than choosing a rock-bottom price from a company with iffy reviews.
• Check for red flags: If one company’s quote is significantly lower than the others, be careful. The mover might hit you with surprise charges later, or something was underestimated. Similarly, avoid movers that require a large upfront deposit to “lock in” the quote. Reputable movers don’t usually demand big deposits before the move.
• Local vs. national movers: If your quotes include local independent movers and big national brands, consider the pros and cons of each. A local mover might offer a more personal touch or lower rate for nearby moves, while a national company might have more resources for long-distance moves.

• Ask for price matching: Let your preferred mover know if you get a lower quote from a competitor. Often, moving companies are willing to price-match or at least come closer to a competitor’s quote to win your business. The worst they can say is no, but a lot of movers will match within reason.
• Inquire about discounts: Many movers have discounts, but they don’t always advertise them. For example, ask about student, military, senior, or AAA discounts. Even a 5-10% discount can add up to significant savings on a large move.
• Adjust services: To trim costs, see if you can remove or handle some services yourself like packing your own boxes or disassembling furniture. Decluttering before moving can also reduce the cost.
• Choose a cheaper move date: A weekday or mid-month in an off-peak season is the best time to move. You could get a better rate for moving on less popular dates.
• Get it in writing: If any changes are made, make sure you get a new written quote or agreement that reflects the updated terms. This protects you from misunderstandings later.

Moving companies deal with quotes all the time, and they expect customers to compare and ask questions. They’re often willing to work with you, especially if you’re polite and interested in hiring them.

• Contact the mover: Let the moving company know you want to proceed. They’ll probably schedule your moving date officially and send a formal contract or bill of lading to sign. Review this document carefully. It should match the quote and terms you agreed on.
• Deposit and confirmation: A lot of reputable movers require a small deposit to hold your moving date (usually a fraction of the total cost). Pay the amount to secure your spot, and get a written confirmation. Be sure you understand their cancellation policy just in case.
• Stay in touch: Keep the mover’s contact info handy. In the weeks and days leading up to the move, inform them of any changes, like adding or dropping services. They should also notify you if anything changes on their end.
• Prepare for moving day: Now that the logistics are set, you can focus on packing and preparing your home. By locking in a fair quote with a reliable mover ahead of time, you’ve taken a huge weight off your shoulders.