Moving and storage services help you manage complex, long-distance moves. The first step in the process, requesting quotes, seems simple, but if handled incorrectly, can lead to unexpected fees and headaches further down the road. To help you avoid overpaying or getting tripped up by the fine print, we’ll explain how to get an accurate moving or storage quote — not only to ensure costs remain predictable, but to make it easy to find a solution that works with your needs and budget.
Start Early
Movers book surprisingly quickly, especially in periods of high demand. Once you’ve decided to relocate, start reaching out right away to ensure you have the help and resources you need. Most experts recommend contacting a mover at least a month ahead of your moving date, even when things are slow. If you’re planning to relocate during moving season (May-September), you may want to reach out 3-4 months in advance to make sure you get the day and time you want.
Do Your Research
Before you request a quote, look into the moving companies and storage options available. Besides reading customer reviews, check the services they provide to make sure they match your needs. For moving companies, this may include:
- Packing and Unpacking
- Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly
- White Glove Services
- Crating Services
- Junk Removal
- Donation Pickup
- Auto Transport
If you have any specialty items, such as antiques, collectibles, pianos, pool tables, or home gym equipment, check to see whether the company has any experience handling these types of objects.
Many movers offer storage services as well. Asking movers to store your belongings is convenient (you don’t have to coordinate with two separate companies when planning your relocation), but some homeowners decide to go with a third-party provider instead. Regardless of which option you choose, to ensure the safety of your belongings, check to see whether the facility offers:
- 24/7 Access
- 24-Hour Surveillance
- Climate-Controlled Units
- Gated Entry
- Drive-Up Access
- Vehicle and Boat Storage
Before requesting a quote, make sure your movers are licensed and insured. Interstate movers require a license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, while local movers must register with their state government. Unlicensed companies often lure customers with below-market rates then demand additional fees, sometimes thousands of dollars, before they agree to deliver your belongings. For a full list of red flags and advice on avoiding fraudulent movers, read our article on moving scams.
Request an In-Home Estimate
According to federal regulations, movers are required to offer in-home estimates if their offices are within 50 miles of your house or apartment. Visiting your home allows movers to determine:
- The total weight of your belongings
- The size and volume of your belongings
- The number of items they need to load onto the truck
- Whether any items need to be crated
- The layout of your home, along with features like staircases and narrow hallways that might pose a challenge on moving day
If your moving company is headquartered more than 50 miles away, request a video estimate instead. The process is similar to a Zoom call and normally offered free of charge.
Inventory Your Belongings
If your moving company is also handling your storage needs, they’ll recommend a unit based on your moving estimate. However, if you’re going through a separate company, then the best way to avoid paying for a unit that is too large or too small is to sort your belongings into categories, to determine whether you need a unit with climate control.
Storage companies usually charge an additional $20-$50 a month for climate-controlled units. Customers purchasing a short-term rental (1-3 months) normally don’t require them, but they’re essential if you’re storing items long-term, particularly:
- Wooden and Leather Furniture
- Electronics
- Artwork and Art Supplies
- Antiques
- Collectibles
- Musical Instruments
- Books
- Clothing
- Bedding and Blankets
- Photographs
- Mattresses
Anything made from metal, glass, and hard plastic is generally fine in non-climate-controlled spaces. Most vehicles withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations fairly well, which means they don’t need climate control either. Once you’ve determined whether you need a climate-controlled unit, you can then select a size that meets your needs. Standard sizes for storage units are:
- 5x10. Large enough to hold the contents of a studio apartment
- 5x15. Large enough for a one-bedroom apartment
- 10x10 or 10x15. Designed for a two-bedroom home
- 10x20 or 10x25. Perfect for a three to four-bedroom home
- 10x30. For five-bedroom homes
If you’re storing a car, you’ll typically require a unit that’s 10x20. If you’re storing a motorcycle, you’ll need one that's 5x10. For anyone renting a storage unit simply to free up space in their existing home, remember that accessibility is a factor. Even if you can squeeze everything into a small unit, choosing a larger one will make it easier to retrieve items when they’re needed.
Compare Quotes From Multiple Companies
Start your search by getting quotes from at least three companies. Comparing quotes helps you make an informed decision about pricing and services. Pay attention to what’s included (packing, storage, valuation coverage) to see what type of value you’re receiving. In many cases, the least expensive option isn’t always the best choice.
Ask Questions Before Signing
Not every moving and storage company structures their quotes the same way. To avoid surprises, keep these questions in mind when reviewing each quote and don’t be afraid to contact the company for more information.
- Is the quote binding or non-binding? The price of non-binding quotes is a broad estimate. The final price is determined on moving day, when your items are loaded and weighed. As a result, you could end up paying more or less than you originally thought, though laws prevent movers from charging more than 110 percent of their original estimate. Binding quotes cannot be changed, even if your belongings weigh more than expected. However, to protect themselves, movers often charge higher rates for binding quotes.
- Are there extra charges for stairs, elevators, or long carries? Some movers charge up to $100 per flight of stairs and an extra $200 if they must carry your belongings more than 100 feet to the van. For distances over 250 feet, they may charge up to $350. Additionally, elevator delays can add $200 to your move.
- Do they offer full value protection? Basic movers insurance only offers partial compensation (60 cents per pound). Full value protection costs more but ensures the moving company will pay to replace or repair lost and damaged items.
- How long is the quote good for? Every moving and storage quote comes with a time limit. Normally, you have 30-60 days to make up your mind, but during the height of moving season, you might have as little as seven days.
- Are pickup and redelivery fees separate from storage charges? Pickup and redelivery fees cover the fuel, time, and labor required to transport items from storage facilities to your home. Most movers charge separately for these types of services.
Only Sign Once the Quote is Fully Filled Out
Because blank spaces can be filled in without your knowledge, you should never hire a mover until every section of the moving quote has been completed. This includes:
- Your Name
- Pick-Up and Delivery Addresses
- Pick-Up Date and Delivery Window
- The Estimate Amount and Type (Binding, Non-Binding)
- All Moving and Storage Services (Packing, Auto Transport, etc.)
- Any Applicable Fees and Surcharges (Fuel, Stairs, Long-Carry, etc.)
- Valuation or Liability Coverage
- Your Moving Company’s Contact Information and Licensing Details
Once you’re certain that the quote is correct and contains all the relevant information, go ahead and sign on the dotted line. It’s time to get moving!
North American Moving and Storage Services
As part of our extensive moving services, North American offers customers a number of secure storage solutions. Whether you’re downsizing to a new home, moving across the country, or relocating overseas, our short-term and long-term storage options make it easy to protect your belongings. With facilities located throughout the United States and Canada, we help you cut down on clutter and move at your own pace. Contact us today for a free quote!