How to Get Moving Quotes From Movers

What a moving quote is and why you need one

A moving quote is a written estimate of what a moving company will charge to transport your belongings from one location to another. The quote breaks down the costs — labor, truck rental, packing materials, or distance — so you can see exactly what you're paying for and compare prices across companies before you hire anyone.

Getting quotes from multiple movers is the only way to know whether a price is reasonable. Moving costs vary widely based on the distance, the weight of your items, the time of year, and what services you add. One company might charge $3,000 for a job another quotes at $5,000, and both could be legitimate. Without quotes, you're guessing.

Most movers provide quotes for free. Some require an in-home visit to see what you're moving; others give estimates over the phone or online based on information you provide. The more detailed your information, the more accurate the quote will be.

Key Takeaways

• Get quotes from at least three movers so you can compare prices and services side by side.
• In-home estimates are more accurate than phone or online quotes because the mover can see the actual volume and condition of your items.
• Have your move details ready before you contact movers: current address, new address, move date, and a list of what you're moving.
• A quote is not a binding contract unless you sign it, so ask whether the estimate is binding or non-binding before you agree to anything.
• Request quotes in writing so you have a record of what was promised and can compare terms across companies.

How to prepare information movers will ask for

Before you contact a moving company, gather the details they'll need to give you an estimate. Have your current address and your new address ready, including the floor or unit number if applicable. Movers ask about building access because moving a one-bedroom apartment from a ground-floor unit is different from moving it from a fifth-floor walk-up.

Write down your intended move date or the range of dates you're considering. Summer and weekends are peak season for movers, so prices are higher then. If you have flexibility, knowing that can help you understand why one quote is lower than another.

Make a rough inventory of what you're moving. You don't need an item-by-item list, but movers need to know whether you're moving a studio apartment or a four-bedroom house, whether you have a piano or a car, and whether you're taking furniture or just boxes. If you have items that are fragile, oversized, or require special handling — a pool table, artwork, an antique — mention those specifically.

The three types of moving estimates

Non-binding estimates are the most common. The mover gives you a price based on what you tell them, but the final bill can be higher if the actual weight or volume is more than estimated. This protects the mover if you've underestimated what you're moving, but it leaves you with uncertainty about the final cost.

Binding estimates lock in the price. If the mover quoted $4,000, you pay $4,000 even if the truck is fuller than expected. The mover absorbs any overages. Binding estimates are more expensive upfront because the company is taking on the risk, but they give you cost certainty. Ask whether the binding estimate includes all services you want or whether add-ons like packing or storage would cost extra.

Not-to-exceed estimates are a middle ground. The mover gives you a maximum price, and you pay less if the actual move costs less. This is less common than the other two, but some companies offer it. Ask your mover which type of estimate they're providing so you understand what you're committing to.

In-home estimates versus phone and online quotes

An in-home estimate means a representative from the moving company visits your current home, walks through, and sees what you're moving. They measure large furniture, check doorways and hallways, and note any obstacles. This takes 30 minutes to an hour, but the estimate is usually accurate within a few hundred dollars because the mover has seen the actual job.

A phone or online estimate is faster. You describe what you're moving, answer questions about your home layout, and the mover gives you a price. These are convenient, but they're less accurate because the mover is working from your description, not from seeing the space. If you underestimate the volume or forget to mention a heavy item, the final bill will be higher than the quote.

For a local move within the same city or region, a phone estimate may be close enough. For a long-distance move, an in-home estimate is worth the time because the stakes are higher and the cost difference between an underestimate and the actual bill can be significant.

How to request quotes from moving companies

Start by searching for movers in your area. Ask friends or family for recommendations, check online reviews on Google or the Better Business Bureau, and look for companies that are licensed and insured. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) maintains a database of licensed interstate movers; you can search by company name to verify their license.

Contact at least three companies. Call or visit their websites to request a quote. Most movers have online forms where you enter your move details and request a callback or in-home estimate. When you contact them, be clear about whether you want a phone estimate or an in-home visit, and ask how long it will take to receive the quote.

Ask each mover to provide the quote in writing. A written quote protects you because it documents what was promised. It should include the estimated cost, what services are included, what the estimate type is (binding, non-binding, or not-to-exceed), and any terms or conditions — for example, whether the price changes if you add packing services or if the move date shifts.

Questions to ask when you get a quote

Once you have a quote, don't just look at the price. Ask whether the estimate includes packing, unpacking, and assembly of furniture. Ask whether there are fees for stairs, long carries, or elevator use. Ask what happens if your move takes longer than expected or if you add items on moving day.

Ask about insurance. Most movers include basic liability coverage, but it's limited — often $0.60 per pound per item. If you have valuable items, ask whether the mover offers full-value protection and what that costs. Ask whether they charge for storage if your new home isn't ready on moving day.

Ask about the crew size and timeline. Will the mover send two people or four? How long do they estimate the move will take? Ask what happens if the move takes longer — do you pay hourly rates after a certain point, or is it included in the estimate?

Ask about payment. When is the balance due — before the move, on moving day, or after? Do they accept credit cards or only cash or check? Ask about their cancellation policy. If you need to reschedule, what's the notice required, and is there a fee?

Red flags in a moving quote

Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than others. Movers with very low prices sometimes add unexpected charges on moving day, or they may not show up at all. If a quote seems too good to be true, ask detailed questions about what's included and what isn't.

Watch for vague language. A quote should specify what services are included, not just give you a total. If a quote says "labor and transportation" without breaking down costs or listing what's included, ask for more detail.

Avoid movers who won't provide a written estimate or who pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. Legitimate movers give you time to compare quotes and think about your decision. If a company insists you decide immediately, that's a warning sign.

Check whether the mover is licensed. Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Intrastate movers are regulated by your state, not the federal government, so check your state's transportation or commerce department for licensing requirements. A mover without proper licensing may not be insured if something goes wrong.

How to compare quotes and choose a mover

Lay out your three quotes side by side. Compare the total price, but also compare what's included. A lower quote might not include packing or might charge extra for stairs. A higher quote might include more services. Calculate the true cost by adding any extras you know you'll need.

Consider the estimate type. A binding estimate gives you cost certainty but costs more upfront. A non-binding estimate is cheaper but leaves you exposed to overages. If you're moving a small amount and you're confident in your inventory, a non-binding estimate may be fine. If you're moving a lot or you're uncertain, a binding estimate is worth the extra cost.

Read reviews, but don't rely on them alone. One bad review doesn't mean the company is bad, and one good review doesn't mean they're reliable. Look for patterns — if multiple reviews mention late arrivals or damage, that's a real concern. If reviews mention good communication and careful handling, that matters.

Call the mover back if you have questions after reviewing the quote. A company that answers your questions clearly and patiently is more likely to handle your move professionally than one that's dismissive or vague.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I negotiate a moving quote?

Yes, especially if you have multiple quotes. If one company is close to your preferred choice but slightly higher, you can ask whether they'll match or beat a competitor's price. Some movers will negotiate; others won't. It doesn't hurt to ask, but don't expect a dramatic discount. Movers are more likely to negotiate on add-on services like packing or storage than on the base moving cost.

What if the actual move costs more than the quote?

If you have a non-binding estimate, the mover can charge more if the actual weight or volume exceeds the estimate. If you have a binding estimate, the price is locked in. Before moving day, confirm with the mover that your inventory hasn't changed significantly. If it has, tell them immediately so they can adjust the estimate if needed.

How long does it take to get a moving quote?

A phone estimate can happen the same day you call. An in-home estimate usually takes a few days to schedule, and the mover typically provides the written quote within a day or two after the visit. If you're planning a move several weeks out, you have time to get quotes and compare. If you're moving soon, contact movers immediately.

Do I need to get quotes from local movers and national chains?

You don't have to, but it's worth getting at least one quote from each. Local movers may have lower overhead and offer more personalized service. National chains have standardized processes and may have more resources. Getting quotes from both gives you a fuller picture of your options and pricing in your area.

What should I do if a mover won't provide a written quote?

Move on to another company. A written quote is standard practice and protects both you and the mover. If a company won't provide one, you have no documentation of what was promised, and you're at risk if there's a dispute about price or services.