When choosing a moving company, your first introduction will be over the phone. So, why do you need to get an estimate? Read on.
I hired a moving company once without getting an estimate and I swear I'll never do that again. I didn't have much of a choice since I was moving my mother's things from a very small town to the other side of the country and large cross-country moving companies were not available locally. So, I called and booked it - sight unseen.
I do not recommend doing this if it can be helped. The rule of thumb for most moving companies is that they will conduct an in-home estimate within a fifty mile radius of their office location - most people will have the option of obtaining an estimate. And, in fact, many movers won't move you without one.
An estimate will allow the mover to see exactly what you'll be moving, if there are any additional costs, and how much room will be needed on the truck. Also, it will provide you with an idea of what you'll be paying (or an exact amount, depending on the type of estimate), so there won't be any surprises when it comes to paying the charge.
