3 Red Flags to Spot a Lowball Estimate From Movers

​Want your move hassle-free? Make sure you recognize and avoid moving scams to save your hard-earned money from going down the drain. You’ll need to do some research beforehand to ensure you don’t fall in the trap of lowball estimates from random movers. 

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So what exactly are lowball estimates from movers? It is an unrealistically low moving quote from a moving company. Since this estimate seems so affordable and too-good-to-be-true, many customers may and do candidly accept the services only to be deceived later.

Identifying and avoiding this red flag is the key.

This blog sheds light on a few clues (below) that indicate a mover may be giving you an unreasonable estimate.

1. The Moving Company Doesn’t Care to Visit Your House and Look at Your Belongings

Did the movers care to visit your house or office and look at all items that are supposed to be moved? Or, did they request to have a look at your items via videos or photos? No? Then there are good chances you may be dealing with a fraud moving company.

Remember that any estimates given on the phone and/or online are usually inaccurate. How can you expect a fair estimate from a moving company when they haven’t even seen your things in-person?

This is where a professional, all-inclusive, local moving company makes a difference. Its movers will assess the amount and weight of your belongings and are likely inquire about stairs, elevators, parking rules and other factors that may affect the final estimate.

2. They Exclude Fees and Other Costs

Did you receive a quote that excluded fees and other costs of moving? Any reputable moving company will include add-on services (see below) and fees to give you a fair and accurate estimate.

●  Labor costs
●  Packing/unpacking services
●  Additional insurance 
●  Disassembly and Reassembly
●   Gas or Mileage fees

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3. “Non-binding” EstimateIf you have received a “non-binding” estimate from a mover, then don’t even consider hiring its services. This estimate means that the quote is subjected to change (read: increase). There are good chances that your final bill will be much higher than originally estimated.
 
To avoid unprofessional movers, only accept either a binding estimate or a binding not-to-exceed estimate. You can know the maximum amount that you could have to pay and budget accordingly.
 
Summing it up, lowball estimates are just one of many red flags to be wary of when hiring a moving company. It’s important to search for licensed and well-established moving companies, like Moving Around The Clock, so can rest assured that your move will be in reliable and safe hands.
 
Gain knowledge, stay informed, and good luck for happy moving!