In-Home Estimates: Reliable, Accurate, & Undervalued

In-Home Estimates

in home estimates for moving
  1. Never Underestimate the Power of an Accurate Estimate
  2. What is an In-Home Estimate & What Makes It Dependable?
  3. Free Estimate & No Strings Attached!
  4. Knowing the Difference Between Professionals & Scammers
  5. Keep Communication Consistent: Correspondence is Key to a Stress-Free Move
  6. In-Home Estimates Create Opportunities to Speak With Experts
  7. What Makes Them Valuable in the Moving Industry?
  8. Check Out Moving Authority's Extensive List of Pro's



1. Never Underestimate the Power of an Accurate Estimate

One of the first steps to a successful move is to 'shop around' by researching moving companies that you think would be able to meet your moving requirements. Once you've got a comprehensive list of some potential companies, it's time to start considering finances. Previously discussed, there are three ways to receive estimates from moving companies, non-binding, binding, and binding not-to-exceed. Although online quotes and over-the-phone estimates are fundamental ways to help figure out a financial plan, budget, etc. they are not always the most accurate. With in-home estimates, trained professionals do a visual assessment. It is always imperative that you obtain at least three estimates from different companies. Prior to starting to look for estimates, remember to make sure they are licensed and operating legally by checking their USDOT number.

2. What is an In-Home Estimate & What Makes It Dependable?

First and foremost, it is imperative that you understand in-home estimates should be free of charge. If you ask them for an in-home estimate and they attempt to charge you, then you need to find another company to receive a quote. When you are looking for a more precise and accurate estimate of costs with any moving company, then you should request an in-home estimate. The moving company will contact you and schedule a time for a professional to visit your home and do a visual observation or consultation. Prior to their home visit, you must make an inventory list of all your good and belongings that need to be moved. Once they evaluate the list you have made, they can give you a more accurate expectation in regards to your moving costs. This leaves less room for any unwelcomed surprises in regards to calculating your expenses.

3. Free Estimate & No Strings Attached!

During your time with the mover, take the opportunity to discuss other influential factors resulting in additional costs as well as to discuss what services you require. Take advantage of this time to ask as many questions as possible in regards to your move including i.e packing services, providing moving and packing supplies, auto transport, etc. After your in-home estimate is completed you will be given a cost evaluation. The best part is, you have no obligation to any moving company that performs an in-home estimate. After comparing all of your estimates, the next step is to carefully choose the best moving company based on the services your require and which company has estimated an affordable cost.

4. Knowing the Difference Between Professionals & Scammers

It's crucial to be aware that these in-home estimates should be free of cost. If you contact a company that can provide an estimate with the same accuracy over the phone, we advise choosing another moving company. Professional moving companies will provide in-home estimates without charge. Another sign to be wary of is the lowballing of estimates from a moving company. This is part of the fundamental advice many movers would give: get as many estimates as you can schedule in one day so you can compare the costs of moving. If a company seems suspiciously low compared to others that have given you estimates, make sure you do some meticulous research on them. You want to avoid rogue movers at any cost! Moving consultants (i.e. professional who visits your home) are distinguished in their field. Not only will they assess your inventory, they have the experience to look beyond that. Taking other obstacles into consideration such as stairs, elevators, or environmental challenges also increase the accuracy of their estimate.

5. Keep Communication Consistent: Trick to a Stress-Free Move

In-home estimates are significant for several reasons that many shippers (i.e. customers) do not take into account when budgeting their moving costs. One common mistake is to go by a phone estimate for accuracy. It's very clear how speaking to someone over the phone vs someone actually visually seeing your goods can be more accurate. Another issue that develops over the phone is a lack of accuracy of communication between the carrier and shipper. Sometimes customers forget to mention items over the phone, which then leads them to anger and confusion over why their moving costs have increased. With a visual evaluation of your property, home, apartment, etc. an expert can explain any additional cost BEFORE you decide to go with their company. Always keep in mind that having consistent contact and communication between you and the movers is imperative to obtain the best estimate.

6. In-Home Estimates Create Opportunity to Speak With Experts

In-home estimates are advantageous in other ways as well. Throughout your visual consultation, you are able to be much more specific as to what stays and what goes, for example. Moving experts can also evaluate your valuables such as antiques or fine art in order to advise on protective measures that need to be taken. Of course, you will want to note all of your breakables, electronics, and heavy or large items such as furniture. An expert will point out small details to you and should also prepare you in advance of pricing for wooden crates, plastic boxes, other specialty moving supplies, etc. After taking note of everything, a moving expert will also survey the surrounding environment as well in order to determine the estimation. Take the time to ask questions and specifically focus on any hidden fees a moving company might have.

7. What Makes Them Valuable in the Moving Industry?

For one's own peace of mind and to keep stress down, we all know to start the moving process months in advance, beginning by picking out some companies and obtaining at least three estimates. While non-binding, binding, and binding not-to-exceed estimates are easily available, the closest and most accurate estimation is done by an in-home visual consultation. Unlike online or over-the-phone estimates, a moving expert actually sees what you have and allows you to tell them exactly what you do and do not need in regards to belongings or other items. This is your allotted time to speak with the mover. Try to schedule all your in-home estimates on the same day to compare prices in order to reduce your list of companies down to those that fit your budget and provides services your move will require. If you believe you've found just the right moving company that is affordable and meets your needs, the next step is to book your move as far in advance as possible. Many suggest planning at least three months prior to when they need to move.

8. Check Out Moving Authority's Extensive Lists of Pro's

At Moving Authority, we aim to provide resources to help customers find the best moving company to suit their move. One of the ways we do that is by providing a comprehensive list of compliant and licensed moving companies across all 50 United States. We aim to help all consumers to protect themselves and their belongings from rogue movers and scams that happen too often in this industry today. You can find companies including local, long-distance, or interstate moves. With connections like these, you can get a head start by using our online moving estimator or moving cost calculator. With these resources, you are bound to find more than a few companies to start off with and begin obtaining some real in-home estimates!