“What about estimates? I’d like to know how much this will cost up-front.”
Of course you would! A Wise Move offers you three basic methods for getting an estimate:
- You can go directly to our estimate form to request a rough estimate on-line.
- You can speak with one of our estimators and get a general estimate over the phone.
- Or you can call and set up an appointment for one of our experienced estimators to come to your home and give you a much better estimate, in writing. This is by far the best way to go – and will get you a much more accurate and detailed estimate than you can achieve by phone or online.
Our toll-free phone number is: 1-800-493-5230
West Valley is: 623-939-9473
East Valley is: 480-445-9077
“Is there just one type of estimate?
In our business, there are two types of estimates: a non-binding estimate which means your final price will be based on the actual amount of hours and materials used on the job; and a binding estimate which gives you a guaranteed price that won’t exceed the amount quoted.
A non-binding estimate is beneficial if:
- You are not exactly sure of all the items you are moving ahead of the move date.
- Your move will involve an unusual amount of details, like moving of a lot of fine art or antiques that you don’t want to rush.
A binding estimate is preferable if:
- You want to guarantee your budget.
- You haven’t moved often, and you are not familiar with the moving process.
“What else should I know about estimates?”
Whichever type of estimate you choose – and whatever mover you work with, we offer you the following helpful hints to ensure yourself a good estimate/moving experience. How does the estimator know what to charge? Simply by using his previous experience in doing similar moves to figure out how long the move will take.
- Get reliable recommendations. You MUST check out potential movers through objective sources like the Better Business Bureau, United States Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or the AMSA. It is of great importance that a reputable moving company will be listed with all three of these agencies – and they will have no claims registered against them.
- Get at least three estimates. This will allow you to make a fair, objective comparison.
- Compare apples to apples. Break down the elements of each mover’s estimate and make a detailed, realistic comparison of the parts, as well as the whole.
- Expect estimates to fall with a reasonable range of each other. A good estimate should be no higher – or lower – than 10 percent of the final cost of the move.
- Ask a friend. We also suggest that you talk to your friends and co-workers. Get their unbiased opinions of movers they have worked with. Learn from their experiences. No one wants to recommend a mover to a friend – and have the move go badly. At A Wise Move, we are proud to say that a very large percentage of our new customers come to us from satisfied, past customers.
“But what if things change?”
As you approach moving day, your plans may change. You may decide to sell or give away some items, and reduce the size of your move. Or you may increase the number of items to be moved, through purchases, gifts or other circumstances.
If your plans change, for any reason, make sure to advise your moving consultant as far in advance as possible. He or she will come back and revisit the site to reassess any changes. He or she then can make appropriate adjustments, before the move. This will assure you the correct equipment, supplies and manpower – as well as the closest possible estimate.
