How to Get the Best Moving Quotes: A Complete Guide

Moving is one of life's most stressful — and expensive — experiences. The average cost of a local move in the U.S. ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, while long-distance moves can cost $4,000 to $10,000 or more. The good news? Getting multiple moving quotes and comparing them strategically can save you 20–40% on your total moving costs.

This guide walks you through the entire process of getting, evaluating, and choosing the best moving quote for your situation — whether you're moving across town or across the country.

Why Getting Multiple Quotes Matters

Many people make the mistake of going with the first moving company they contact. That's like buying a car from the first dealership you visit. Moving companies price their services differently based on their capacity, distance expertise, seasonal demand, and overhead costs.

By comparing at least 3–5 quotes, you'll:

• Establish a realistic price range for your specific move
• Identify outliers — quotes that are suspiciously low (a red flag) or unreasonably high
• Gain leverage to negotiate better rates with your preferred mover
• Understand what's included — and what costs extra

Step 1: Know Your Move Details

Before requesting quotes, gather these essentials. The more accurate your information, the more accurate your quotes will be:

• Origin and destination addresses (or at least zip codes)
• Home size — number of bedrooms, approximate square footage
• Move date or preferred window (weekdays are typically cheaper than weekends)
• Special items — pianos, antiques, hot tubs, pool tables, safes
• Access issues — stairs, elevators, long carries, narrow streets
• Storage needs — will you need temporary storage?

Step 2: Request In-Home or Virtual Surveys

Phone and online quotes are starting points, but the most accurate estimates come from in-home surveys. A representative walks through your home, evaluates the volume and weight of your belongings, and provides a detailed, binding estimate.

Virtual surveys (via video call) have become increasingly popular and are nearly as accurate. The estimator guides you through each room via your smartphone camera and documents everything that needs to be moved.

Types of Moving Estimates

1. Non-binding estimate: The mover gives a ballpark figure, but the final cost is based on actual weight and services. Your final bill could be higher.
2. Binding estimate: The price is fixed based on the items listed. If you add items later, the price adjusts.
3. Binding not-to-exceed estimate: The best option for consumers. You pay the estimate or less — never more.

Always ask for a binding not-to-exceed estimate when possible. It protects you from surprise charges on moving day.

Step 3: Evaluate Each Quote Carefully

Not all quotes are created equal. When comparing estimates, look beyond the bottom-line number:

• What's included? Packing materials, furniture disassembly/reassembly, loading/unloading, transport, insurance
• What's excluded? Packing services, long carries, stair fees, appliance servicing, shuttle fees
• Insurance coverage: Basic coverage (released value) is $0.60 per pound per article. Full value protection costs more but covers actual repair/replacement value.
• Cancellation and rescheduling policies: Life happens. Know the terms.
• Payment terms: Legitimate movers typically accept credit cards and don't demand large cash deposits upfront.

Step 4: Verify the Moving Company

Before signing anything, do your due diligence:

1. Check USDOT registration at FMCSA.dot.gov — every interstate mover must be registered
2. Read reviews on Google, Yelp, and the BBB — look for patterns, not individual complaints
3. Verify insurance — ask for a certificate of insurance
4. Check complaint history — the FMCSA maintains complaint records for all registered movers
5. Get everything in writing — verbal promises mean nothing on moving day

Step 5: Negotiate and Book

Once you've narrowed your choices to 2–3 movers, don't be afraid to negotiate. Here's what you can negotiate:

• Price matching: Show a lower competing quote and ask if they'll match it
• Added services: Free packing materials, furniture disassembly, or a free wardrobe box
• Flexible dates: Moving mid-month or mid-week can save 15–25%
• Bundled discounts: If you need storage + moving, bundling often reduces the overall cost

Red Flags to Watch For

Protect yourself from moving scams by watching for these warning signs:

• Demanding a large cash deposit before the move
• No physical address or local presence
• A quote that's dramatically lower than all others (lowball trap)
• Refusing to do an in-home or virtual survey
• No USDOT number or vague about licensing
• Unmarked trucks or no company uniforms

Timing Tips to Save More

When you move matters almost as much as who you hire:

• Peak season (May–September) costs 20–30% more than off-season months
• End of month is the busiest time — aim for mid-month
• Weekdays are significantly cheaper than weekends
• Book early — 4–8 weeks in advance for local moves, 8–12 weeks for long-distance

The Bottom Line

Getting the best moving quote isn't about finding the cheapest price — it's about finding the best value. A slightly higher quote from a licensed, insured, well-reviewed company with a binding not-to-exceed estimate will almost always save you money and headaches compared to a lowball offer from an unverified operation.

Take the time to compare, verify, and negotiate. Your future self — surrounded by safely delivered belongings in your new home — will thank you.