Looking to go new places this year? Don't break the bank or stress yourself in the process. From three types of moving estimates to possible extra costs, Atlas experts share a few ways to avoid unnecessary services fees and moving costs:
Weigh the estimate: Many movers provide online, phone and in-home estimates. An in-home estimate is almost always the most accurate. By allowing a surveyor to visit your home, not only will it allow for a more accurate measure of the amount and types of items included in your move, it can also be a helpful resource in preparation for your move. While you might forget to mention the storage area or the swing set, the surveyor is trained to look for items that might cause your estimate to increase. Many companies offer estimating services free of charge.
Consider types of estimate options: Many companies offer options for estimates; binding, non-binding and the Assured Price Protection program. If you elect a binding estimate, regardless of the actual weight of your shipment, the surplus won't be charged to you if the move occurs within sixty days and no additional services are added. With Atlas' Assured Price Protection program, if the binding estimate was too robust, the difference will be calculated and you will pay the lower fee. A non-binding estimate, on the other hand, gives you a good idea of what the price of your move will be, but the actual payment is based on actual weight determined after loading.