Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Moving FAQ

Hiring a moving company can feel a little overwhelming. With so many to choose from, where do you even start? Over our many moves, and with some really bad experiences combined with mostly good ones, we've made the task of hiring movers a little less complicated, simply from learning what we need to know before we sign on the dotted line.

Here are the most asked frequently asked questions when it comes to moving. The key to a smooth move is organization. Based on our years of experience, we have combined a series of frequently asked questions to assist you in organizing and planning your next move.

Hiring a Moving Company FAQ's

1. How do movers charge? - Specifics vary state to state. Local moving services are generally charged on an hourly basis and long distance moves and interstate moves are calculated using a combination of the weight of the items to be moved and the distance their being transported.


2. How do movers know what needs to be moved? - In order for an estimate to be generated an inventory must be completed of the items you would like to be moved. This inventory is typically referred to as a survey in the moving industry. This involves the creation of a detailed record of items to be moved from your home. The list is comprehensive and includes all furniture, appliances and estimated number of boxes.


3. Who completes the inventory of the items to be moved? - It is recommended that this inventory/survey be completed by the moving company.


4. Do all moving companies complete the survey? - In certain instances movers may not perform an in home survey due to location or size of home.


5. What if the moving company does not perform an in home survey? - If this is the case you will need to inventory your household belongings and provide info to the mover. It is recommended and in your best interest to ensure that this is done as accurately as possible to ensure an accurate quote from the mover. Be sure to include garage basements, attics and other storage spaces. To simplify this process use a home inventory organizer like the one available to all customers free of charge in their Fix Price Move account which also assists with move planning in general and provides additional long lasting benefits.


6. Should I obtain more than one estimate? - It is strongly recommended that you request quotes from multiple moving companies for price and service comparison. Please note that each moving company may require they complete their own inventory.


7. Are movers bound to the estimate that they have provided? - This depends on the type of estimate given. In many states movers are required to provide the customer with a binding estimate. Ask the mover specifically what type of estimate they are providing you with in order to be sure you can rely on the final amount due. The best type of estimate that can be given is the Binding Not-To-Exceed or Gross Not-To-Exceed estimate. This means that mover can not charge you more than the estimate but it is possible that they will charge you less. Some states do not require binding estimates and generally movers in those states will not provide them. In these states it is even more important to find moving companies that have excellent reputations and that they get a complete and accurate inventory to provide the estimate. Open a Fix Price Move account to find a directory with some of the top moving companies in the industry with reputations for providing accurate estimates and a high level of customer satisfaction.


8. Where can I find movers I can trust? - There are many good moving companies but they are not always easy to find. Bad moving companies typically advertise just as much, if not more than their high quality counterparts both in phone books and on the internet. Fix Price Move does not recommend the use of lead generating websites who typically work with moving companies of varying quality and will sell your information to these companies, sometimes without even telling you who they are. For states that are regulated by a state agency it is good idea to visit the websites of those agencies for a list of licensed moving companies in your state and more information about your state regulations. Additionally by searching the BBB for a complaints and using other mover review sites you can get a better feel for the level of service provided. By opening a Fix Price Move account you are provided with a directory of some of the best movers in the industry in your area that can service your needs. Fix Price Move only works with moving companies that are properly licensed and insured, have a good history with the BBB and many are known and respected in the industry as providing excellent customer service.


9. What if I need moving and storage? - Many moving companies also have large warehouses and offer storage as well as moving services. This type of storage is different than self storage in that your belongings are crated (or in the case of larger individual items like sofas which are wrapped in heavy duty shrink wrap to protect them and stacked on massive shelving units) and stored in the warehouse. This type of storage is usually more cost efficient than self storage and your belongings are typically safer. It is ideal for scenarios when there will be a lag between moving out of your old house and moving in to your new one or when you know you will not need items for a significant amount of time. It is not ideal if you want to have consistent and easy access to your belongings. If the moving company name says "moving & storage" in the name than you know it offers this type of service but even many movers will offer this service even when it is not clearly indicated in the name of the company.