What are the different types of moving Estimates?
Moving estimates are an essential aspect of any relocation process. They provide customers with an idea of the cost of their move and help them plan their budget accordingly. There are different types of moving estimates, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The three primary types of moving estimates are non-binding, binding, and binding not-to-exceed. It is important for customers to understand the different types of moving estimates and choose the one that best suits their needs. By doing so, they can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience. Here in this blog, we will introduce you to different types of moving estimates, things to consider while choosing estimates, and some pro moving tips to achieve successful relocation.
Types of Moving Estimates
There are three major moving estimates available in the moving industry. Most of the time moving cost fully depends on the weight of belongings that need to be transit. In the below section, we have shared different types of moving estimates along with their benefits.
Important Tips for all Kinds of Moving Estimates
- Make sure to cross-check all the clauses in the moving contract, don’t sign incomplete or blank papers.
- The estimates written on the contract will be finalized once signed so just be careful and understand everything contained in the contract.
- After loading and shipment of belongings, your movers are not allowed to change pricing on the contract. All changes in the binding contract will require your consent.
Non-Binding Estimate
This type of estimate provides customers with an approximate cost of the move based on the mover’s assessment of the weight of the shipment. However, the final cost may vary depending on the actual weight of the items being moved. If the final cost is higher than the estimated cost, the customer will have to pay additional charges according to the weight of the belongings. A non-binding moving estimate is the most common type of relocation estimate if you want to move long distance or interstate. While moving interstate the moving estimates will be based on the weight of goods along with the type of service that you want to get from removalists. The non-binding moving estimates are not fixed, they can fluctuate according to the weight of your belongings. This implies that the real price of the transfer may fluctuate on the day of your relocation.
- The mover must explain in the contract that all charges on the bill are under the non-binding estimate.
- An accurate moving estimate is compulsory based on the weight and services you take.
- Don’t sign any moving contract without reading it.
Binding Estimate
A binding estimate provides customers with a fixed cost for the move, which is determined by the mover’s assessment of the weight of the shipment. This means that the final cost cannot exceed the agreed-upon amount, even if the actual weight of the items is higher than estimated. The customer will pay the fixed amount that has been decided while making a contract. This type of moving estimate is commonly used during the house or office move.
- Without informing you, removalists cannot add any additional charges to the estimate.
- A separate bill will be generated for additional service on a moving day.
- The moving company must provide an estimate in writing.
- The moving estimate should be addressed in the estimate that it’s binding.
Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate
Binding not-to-exceed moving estimate is most popular among Australians due to its benefits. This type of estimate is a hybrid of the two previous estimates. In this type of estimate, if the estimated weight of the belongings is higher still customers will need to pay a fixed amount that has been decided. On the other hand, if the actual weight of the belonging is lesser than the estimated weight then the customer will have to pay for the actual weight.
It is essential for customers to understand the differences between these types of estimates and choose the one that best suits their needs. By doing so, they can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience. Along with that customers will be able to get a budget-friendly move.
Important Moving Quote Terms
When you receive a moving quote from a moving company, it is important to understand the various terms used in the quote. Before signing any moving contract or bill make sure to read all the following 9 moving quote terms.
1. Bill of lading
The Bill of lading is one of the most important documents of the moving process. Make sure to read it very carefully before signing the document. Check all listed details for example pick and delivery addresses are correct. If anything goes wrong during the move you will require a bill of lading, so keep it in a very safe place.
2. CP
In your bid or mover’s estimated contract, you can notice “CP” if you have your movers handle some of your packings. “Carrier Filled” is what this signifies. It shows the number of cartons or boxes that your movers packed for you. There will be an additional charge for this service, as expected. Pay close attention to how many boxes are marked “CP” on your quote and final invoice if you combine self-packing and mover-packing tactics during your move to avoid overpaying.
3. COD
The COD stands for “cash on delivery” in that case you will need to pay for your move when your belongings will arrive at your new home. Discuss with the removalists about the payment method in advance such as credit card, check, or cash. If you want to pay the amount in cash make sure to receive a signed slip from the removalists for the amount that you have paid.
4. Flight charge
The term flight charge doesn’t refer to the cost to deliver your stuff via plane; this term means how many stairs your movers have to navigate while loading and unloading equipment. While getting the contract make sure to cross-check that this number should be zero on your quote if you are living in a bottom-floor apartment or a single-story home.
5. Inventory
An Inventory is the moving checklist of belongings that you want to move from one place to another place, as well as showing the number of items and describing the condition of each item. By making an inventory you would be able to identify your items if anything is missing or damaged during the transit. If any unfortunate thing happens you will need to submit the inventory to prove that the item was in the shipment and was not marked as damaged.
6. PBO
The best way to save money on the move is to pack your belongings on your own. If you choose to pack your belongings yourself make sure to check that contract should not reflect any packing services or cost in the bill.
7. PAD
The acronym “PAD” stands for “Preferred Arrival Date” provided by the homeowner. While filling out the form with this term make sure to enter the date that you want your belongings to arrive at the given address.
8. Standard coverage
A free minimum amount of insurance for your belongings must be included by movers by law in all moving rates. It’s not much; you will be compensated for damaged products based on their weight. For example, a pound of damaged goods often only costs 60 cents under standard coverage.
9. Valuation
In this case, movers will evaluate your belongings and say your goods are worth and the maximum they will cover in insurance based on the weight of the belongings. Make sure to purchase extra coverage to protect your belongings from damage and losses during the move.
Read More :- Moving Cost Australia
Factors That Impact Your Moving Quotation
Distance
The distance between your current home and your new home is one of the most significant factors that can impact your moving quote. The farther the distance, the higher the cost. If the moving distance from your old home to your new home is more than 80 km it will be considered an interstate or long-distance move. On the other hand, if you move within the same city or less than 80 km away the move will be considered a local move.
Size and weight of your belongings
The number of items you need to move and their weight can also impact the cost of your move. The more items you have, the larger the truck you’ll need, and the more it will cost to transport your belongings.
Time of year
The months of the year you plan to move can also affect your moving quote. Moving during the peak season, which is typical during the summer months, may be more expensive due to the high demand for removalists than moving during the off-season. On the other hand, moving during the off-season may lead to a budget-friendly move because you could have huge discounts from removalists.
Type of move
The type of move you need can also impact your moving quote. A local move will typically be less expensive than a long-distance move, and a full-service move, which includes packing and unpacking, will be more expensive than a DIY move. The cost of moving fully depends on the services that you want to get from removalists. If you want to save your money over the move and don’t mind investing time then you could do it yourself by packing and unpacking on your own. You would be able to save your time and money as well.
Insurance
The amount of insurance coverage you require for your belongings can also impact your moving quote. The higher the value of your belongings, the more insurance coverage you’ll need, which will increase the cost of your move.
Additional Information: Tips to Get the Best Removalists
While moving home the most important thing that every homeowner should consider is to find removalists very carefully. Finding the best removalists will lead to stress-free and budget-friendly moves. Here are some that will help you to get reliable removalists in Melbourne.
Do Research for Movers
If you want to get a move without any hassle make sure to do your own research for the removalists. You can ask your friends and neighbors if they know a reliable removal company that can fulfill your moving requirements.
Review and Ratings
Don’t be fully dependent on the references, make sure to check reviews and ratings of the company on the internet.
Get multiple Moving Quotes
We will suggest you get at least two or more moving quotes and compare the prices and services carefully. It will help you to save money and you would be able to get the best and most reliable services.
Check the services offered
Ensure the removalists you are considering offer the services you need, such as packing, unpacking, and storage. Along with that, ensure removalists about the insurance for your belongings.
Check the experience
Consider the experience of the removalists you are considering. Companies with years of experience are often more reliable and efficient as compared to less experienced movers. A moving company with experience and quality services might be a bit expensive, however, you will not have to be worried about your belonging while moving.
Read the contract carefully
Carefully review the contract before signing to ensure you understand the services being provided and the costs involved. Don’t sign any blank paper, and also avoid paying any advance amount to the removalists. As well as read every clause very carefully and discuss the hidden charges to avoid any surprise costs.
Ask Removalists to Make a Physical Visit to Your Home
Before finalizing any moving quotes, ask movers to visit your home and check out your property and the volume of belongings. So that movers could check the complexity of the move and provide you with an exact moving quotation, to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
When it comes to moving estimates, there are different types that you should be aware of. It’s important to understand each type of estimate and how they work to make an informed decision about which one to choose. Remember to always read the fine print and ask questions to ensure you have a clear understanding of the estimate, including any potential additional fees or charges that may apply. By taking the time to research and understand the different types of moving estimates, you can make a well-informed decision and have a smoother and more stress-free moving experience.