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Several Estimates Save a Bundle
while preparation and an inventory averts trouble
Written by Consumers Union Southwest Regional Office
Although many people don't bother to get several estimates before signing up with a moving company, moving company prices vary considerably and you can save a bundle. Consumer Reports recommends getting at least three estimates before selecting a mover. We found that, for our sample move, we could have saved more than $1,000 by selecting the lowest binding estimate among the six companies we called. We also found that we could use the "walk-through" to ask movers for money saving tips.
Of the six moving companies we entertained at our "representative" home, most suggested we contact a local clock business to dissemble our grandfather clock. If the moving company performed this service they would pass on a surcharge. The movers also told us that if we could disconnect the water from our washing machine and refrigerator ice maker we would avoid a surcharge. Five of the six company representatives left brochures with helpful moving tips like these and the consumer protection information which TxDoT requires to be distributed. (One representative showed us a program on his laptop computer which provided much the same information.)
The visits were scheduled for the same day, which created some problems. Some representatives showed up late for their appointments and were unable to provide an estimate because they left when the next representative showed up. (One representative stated there was an unwritten rule that no two agents would be in a house at the same time. We suggest you schedule appointments for estimates at least a hour and a half apart and inform each representative of their allotted time period.
As we walked through the house, most representatives also made suggestions for ways to cut packing costs and pointed out items that might be shipped by an alternate method to save money. Since some estimators were more helpful than others, we recommend you ask directly for suggestions on ways to cut cost from your move.
Finally, be sure to ask the estimator to include the cost of an inventory in your estimate. The inventory is your best protection if a moving company attempts to claim that your goods were already damaged prior to the move, rather than paying for damage caused by the move.
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Take down ceiling fans prior to moving day. Movers will charge you for the cost of an electrician to do it. |
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If you have many books, pack them yourself and mail them book rate to save significantly on the cost of your move. |
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Purchase enough insurance to over damage to especially valuable items, or transport themyourself separately. Movers may not pay for damage to items you pack yourself. |
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Hire a piano specialist to prepare your piano for the move. Service to a piano will add a hefty additional charge to your bill if the mover does it, and there's a greater chance of damage. |
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Grandfather clocks should be dissembled by a clock specialist prior to moving day. |
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Ask the mover to inventory your items and check the inventory carefully to be sure everything is included. |
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Check polished table tops and antiques for any existing damage (nicks and scratches) and note its exact location. |
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Disconnect the water to the washing machine and refrigerator and gas to the dryer and range prior to moving day to avoid a surcharge. |
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Note down the location of all existing damage (worn areas, pulls) to fabric on furnishings. |
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Confirm on the inventory that all goods with moveable parts are fully operational prior to the move. |
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All information ©1998 Consumers Union