Moving costs add up quickly when you’re transitioning to a new home, and professional movers often take the biggest chunk of a budget. But how much should you really pay for local moving services? Quotes can differ by hundreds of dollars and might include extra fees or service surcharges.
Gathering multiple moving quotes is the best way to understand costs and avoid overpaying. It doesn’t need to take long to get tailored quotes, either. This guide walks you through strategies for finding moving services and comparing rates. You’ll learn how to request accurate quotes and what red flags to watch for. Once you have a game plan, you can find experienced moving companies that fit your budget and avoid unexpected costs when the final bill comes in.
The Best Ways to Get Free Moving Quotes from Local Companies
There are several ways to find local movers and request quotes. Some approaches are more efficient than others. Below, we’ll run through your options, which include:
- Search engines or word-of-mouth: Find movers through online searches or personal referrals, then contact companies separately.
- Lead generation websites: Use sites that secure quotes for you in exchange for your personal information.
- Online marketplaces like HireAHelper: Get instant quotes without sharing your contact details.
1. HireAHelper.com
HireAHelper connects you to a network of licensed and insured movers. Simply enter the following details to get instant quotes from moving companies on our marketplace:
- Zip codes for your pick-up and drop-off locations
- Moving date
- Details about stairs, oversized items, and add-on services
Once you submit your request, you’ll get real prices in a clear, easy-to-understand format right on your screen. You’ll know how many movers you need and how long the move should take, making it a breeze to compare pricing. You’ll even learn how much it costs if the move takes longer than expected, so you can avoid unexpected billing issues. Learn more in our guide, How Does HireAHelper Work?
Best of all, you don’t have to wait around for movers to get back to you or fend off dozens of sales calls. You can also book with confidence, as HireAHelper’s best price guarantee ensures you’re getting the most competitive rates. Just find your preferred mover and schedule your move in minutes.
2. Moving Company Websites
Another option is to use a search engine to find local moving companies. Many movers have quote request forms on their websites. They usually ask for your move date, start and end points, and the size of your move. Your request is reviewed by staff who contact you with the quote or schedule a walk-through before providing an estimate.
Pros:
- You can review each company’s website and services before reaching out.
- You can communicate directly to ask questions and make special requests.
Cons:
- It’s time-consuming to search for reputable companies.
- You have to wait for responses to your emails or web requests.
- Each company uses a different quoting system, making it difficult to compare.
3. Moving Comparison Sites
Some websites act as a go-between, collecting details about you and your move, and reaching out to moving companies for you. Typically, you provide your contact information and wait for companies to get in touch.
Pros:
- It’s more convenient than contacting movers individually.
- You can connect with movers you might not have discovered.
Cons:
- Quotes may be estimates and not real prices.
- It can be hard to compare quotes from different companies.
- You may feel pressure to commit, with multiple sales emails and calls.
4. Word-of-Mouth
Ask friends, family, and coworkers if they have moving company recommendations. You can call the movers directly or submit quote requests on their websites.
Pros:
- You get personal referrals without spending time researching online.
- You have insight into the movers’ professionalism and reliability.
Cons:
- You have a limited pool of movers to choose from.
- It’s time-consuming to contact companies individually.
- Your experiences may differ depending on your needs.
Why Getting Multiple Quotes Matters
Each company calculates costs differently based on factors like availability, crew experience, and the kind of services they provide. Getting several quotes gives you a better idea of what the going rate is for moves.
“Some movers charge extra for stairs, so count the number of flights at your current and new home. Spiral staircases, tight corners, and narrow hallways can also slow movers down and may cost more.”
Make sure you’re looking at the same details, services, and circumstances for fair comparisons. This helps you understand the charges and what you can expect to pay in the end. Perhaps a lower quote hasn’t accounted for the stairs in your building or includes more limited insurance coverage. Maybe one quote is locked in and another is subject to change.
The easiest way to compare pricing is to use a tool that provides instant side-by-side quotes. HireAHelper’s platform presents moving quotes in a standard format that’s easy to compare. Best of all, you don’t have to provide personal data or wait for follow-up calls.
What to Watch for When Getting Free Quotes
No matter how you get your moving quotes, there are a few things to keep an eye out for to avoid potential hassles. Try to get a handle on all costs upfront, watch for signs of how your information may be used, and keep the following in mind:
- Estimates vs. pricing: Some companies provide estimates and not concrete pricing. The final bill may be higher, throwing your budget out of whack.
- Lead generation: Websites that ask for contact information before you book a move may be collecting information for marketing purposes. While a follow-up is normal, you may also get multiple emails and calls selling you services.
- Extra charges: Free quotes are provided to help you decide whether to use a company’s services. You shouldn’t be asked to pay a fee or make a deposit to learn how much your move will cost.
What You Need to Request and Compare Quotes
Aim to gather at least 3 to 5 moving quotes to give you a good basis for comparison. Before you get started, write down key information about your move so you don’t forget anything. Movers typically need to know:
- Moving date
- Start and end locations, which can include zip codes and/or complete street addresses
- Size of move (number of bedrooms)
- List of heavy or oversized items
- Required services (packing, furniture assembly, temporary storage)
- Access details (stairs, elevators, street parking)
Comparing Quotes
Once you have quotes in hand, line up the details and ensure each one is based on the same moving costs. If a company is charging for travel between locations, check if other companies have accounted for this expense. Look for exclusions — does the company provide hand trucks, moving blankets, and plastic wrap? Hidden costs can lead to overspending when you receive the final bill.
Good moving companies are transparent and straightforward. How a mover handles quoting can reflect on their professionalism.Watch out for the following red flags as you gather your quotes:
- Incomplete quotes: Vague pricing can indicate poor attention to detail and disorganization. If a quote doesn’t clearly state what’s included, you may have additional costs later.
- Payments and deposits: Be wary of movers who want a large, non-refundable deposit or full payment in advance. Most reputable companies ask for a small deposit closer to your move date.
- Deadlines for booking: Quotes that are valid for a limited time can be a pressure tactic. Companies may be using deadlines to get you to commit before you’ve finished researching.
Tips to Get the Most Accurate Quote
Nobody wants a last-minute scramble to cover unexpected moving charges. Be as precise as possible about the scope of your move so companies can give you a detailed quote. This helps you set a realistic budget and plan confidently.
- Be upfront about bulky or oversized items: Movers may need special equipment or more time to move exercise equipment, pianos, outdoor grills, and large appliances.
- Let movers know about stairs: Some movers charge extra for stairs, so count the number of flights at your current and new home. Spiral staircases, tight corners, and narrow hallways can also slow movers down and may cost more.
- Think about access to your home: Can the movers park close to your door or do they have an extended trek to haul your belongings to and from their truck? Long carries often have extra charges.
- Request add-on services in advance: Packing, unpacking, and furniture assembly isn’t always included in standard moving quotes.
- Account for extra labor: The number of bedrooms in your home doesn’t always reflect the size of your move. If your house is jam-packed with belongings, your move will take longer than if you’ve decluttered. Think about the attic, basement, garage, and off-site storage when requesting estimates.
Final Thoughts
Smart planning can help you save money on your move. As prices can vary from one moving company to another, it’s worth getting several moving quotes to stretch your dollars further. Be sure you’re comparing similar services, watching for hidden costs, and getting accurate quotes based on your needs.
Try HireAHelper for instant moving quotes in a few clicks. Compare pricing, read customer reviews, and book your move in one place. Then, you can cross “hiring movers” off your moving checklist and get one step closer to a smooth, organized moving day.
FAQs
Are moving quotes really free?
Yes, most reputable companies provide free moving quotes to help you decide whether their services fit your needs. Companies may ask for a small deposit only once you decide to schedule a move.
How many moving quotes should I get?
Three to five moving quotes can give you a good sense of the rates in your city. It helps you to identify outliers that may be significantly higher or lower than average.
What’s the difference between binding and non-binding moving estimates?
Binding moving quotes are locked in as long as your requirements and situation don’t change. Non-binding estimates are rough calculations and subject to change.
Can I negotiate a moving quote?
Some companies may be flexible on costs depending on their availability, especially if you mention that other companies are giving you a lower price. To help reduce your moving expenses, check out our tips for saving on your move.