Understanding a Move Estimate
Whether you're moving locally or long distance (or interstate), you're always entitled to a written estimate of expected charges from your moving company. These estimates should include transportation, accessory, and advance fees. Your mover's rate quote itself is not an estimate and does not include all of the associated charges. The estimate is a document that specifies all the move details and is signed by the mover and you.
Long distance and interstate estimates
A long distance estimate will list a number of line items at the top: your name, origin address, contact numbers and your destination information. Pick-up and delivery dates and payment information are also included. If your employer is covering the cost of your move, the estimate will list billing information to your company. If you're paying, it will show cash on delivery (COD) or prepaid options, depending on the agreement you make with your mover.
The estimate should also show packing and unpacking services, listed by carton type number of cartons, rate per carton, and total charges. You will also see charges at full tariff rate, before a discount price (the discount will be applied at the bottom of the estimate). The middle of the estimate specifies the weight from which your transportation charges will be based followed by the line-haul charges for that weight. This item is usually listed at full tariff, also before a discount is applied.
Next are origin and destination service charges, which may vary based on the area in which you're moving. These charges are added to offset the cost of labor in different parts of the country for loading and unloading your cargo. At this point, the estimate should list a subtotal of charges. A discount is then applied and reflected in another subtotal.
The estimate may also list other charges with no discount. Due to today's high fuel costs, your estimate will contain a fuel surcharge. If you need any third party services, these charges will also be listed. You will have your established valuation options and an insurance related surcharge, which helps with the high costs of insurance in the trucking industry.
The grand total of expected charges based on the services agreed upon will be at the bottom of the estimate, along with the spaces where you and the mover will sign for the agreed upon terms and conditions.
Local and intrastate estimates
The services for a local or intrastate move will be charged based on an hourly rate. Your moving company will evaluate your needs and determine the number of movers, equipment and any other services that your move will require. This estimate should be fairly simple to understand. Line items for packing (and unpacking, if requested) and any third party services will be listed at the top. If you chose valuation for your shipment beyond the mover's normal liability, it will be listed next. The estimate will also specify the number of required movers multiplied by the company's hourly rate. The total cost of the move will be listed below these line items.
It's important to carefully review the estimate with your mover so that you understand each line item. If you agree on a binding estimate with guaranteed charges, make sure this is specified in writing on the estimate. All services verbally discussed should also be written on the estimate. As with any other service purchase, it's up to you to make sure that everything you expect to receive is included on the estimate, and be sure that you understand each item cost and the total that you will be paying.
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