Pricing a Move

It's a proven fact that moving is a stressful life event. And a costly one if you don't take the time to know the company you are doing business with. If it's your first or fifth move, it's important to shop for experience and cost.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you decide to shop for moving company to transport your precious belongings to a new location.

• Reputable moving companies use a base rate book published by the Household Goods Carriers Bureau. The book, Tariff 400-M, provides estimates for all moving transactions including packing, storage, transportation, special needs and more.
• Look at your estimate form from each company. If each company is using the guidelines provided by Tariff 400-M, the wide range of quotes you receive may surprise you. Here are some questions you should review before you make your choice:
• Has your shipment and services been underestimated to create a false sense of value?
• Did you have an experienced estimator for each quote?
• What kinds of discounts were applied and how do they compare?
• Is it a binding or guaranteed quote?
• Do you have it in writing?
• Have you done some homework and checked with friends and associates who have used the company in recent months?

Always insist on a guaranteed price, in writing, so there are no surprises the day your shipment arrives. Understand your responsibilities if you are doing the packing and the responsibilities the moving company has agreed to for your move.