Get Online Moving Quotes from Top Rated Movers

Spark Solutions • June 17, 2024
Man signing delivery manifest

Relocating can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right resources, you can transform this seemingly difficult task into a smooth process. This article will guide you through how to obtain different moving companies’ free quotes and quotes for moving to a new place from top-rated movers, ensuring you get the best service without breaking the bank. Get a free estimate from Stewart today!


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What is a Moving Quote? How Are Moving Quotes Calculated?

A moving quote is an estimate provided by a moving company that outlines the expected cost of your relocation process. Moving quotes are based on a variety of factors such as the distance of the move, the weight or volume of your belongings, the services you require (like packing, disassembly or storage), and the time of year. For example, international moving quotes will vary greatly from a local online moving quote. Some companies may also take into account the complexity of the move, such as the number of large or fragile items, or if there are stairs or elevators involved. It’s important to get a moving quote to budget appropriately and avoid unexpected moving costs during your relocation. Remember, each company may calculate their moving quotes differently, so it’s advisable to get moving quotes from multiple providers.


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Factors Affecting Getting an Accurate Moving Quote

  1. Moving Date and Season: The time of your move can significantly impact the cost. Peak moving seasons, such as summer or end of the month, may result in higher quotes due to increased demand.
  2. Distance and Current Location: The further the distance between your current location and your new home, the higher the moving quote. Certain locations may have higher moving costs due to factors like traffic, parking, or local regulations.
  3. Weight of Household Belongings: The total weight of your items is a major factor in your moving quote. The more stuff you have, the more it will cost to move.
  4. Moving Liability and Valuation Coverage: If you opt for additional coverage to protect your belongings during the move, this will increase the moving quote. This includes Full Value Protection, where the mover is liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods.
  5. Moving Add-Ons and Storage Costs: Services like packing, disassembly, storage, or special handling for fragile items will add to the total moving quote. If you require storage, either temporary or long-term, this will also increase your moving quote.


Remember, each moving company may calculate their moving quotes differently, so it’s recommended you get detailed quotes from multiple providers for comparison.


Learn more: Change of Address Checklist: Who to Inform When You Move to a New Address?


Types of Moving Quotes and Moving Costs Estimators

  • Instant Ballpark Moving Quotes: This moving company’s instant quotes are quick moving service estimates provided online or over the phone based on the information you provide, such as the size of your home and the distance of your move. They offer a general idea of the cost but are subject to change. You can learn more about our military movers cost estimate.
  • Non-Binding Moving Quotes: This type of quote is a moving service estimate that can change depending on the actual weight of your items. It’s important to note that the final cost may be higher or lower than the initial quote of the moving service cost estimator.
  • Binding Moving Quotes: A binding quote guarantees the total cost of your move based on the weight of your items and the services listed in the moving service cost estimator. With this type of quote, the price won’t increase, even if the actual weight is higher than estimated. NOR will it decrease, if you actually have less than the estimated amount.


Each type of moving quote has its advantages and potential drawbacks, so it’s important to understand them fully before you choose the best option for your moving needs.


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What's Included in Your Moving Estimate?

Couple carrying boxes upstairs

A moving estimate is a projection of the cost associated with hiring a full-service moving company. It serves as a detailed forecast of what you will pay the moving company for its services. The estimate is based on factors such as the size and weight of your belongings, the services you require, and the distance you plan to travel as part of your move.


The estimate usually includes some or all of the following:

  • The estimated weight of your household goods.
  • The approximate number of items to be moved (includes boxes, furniture, and everything in between.
  • Your origin and destination addresses, and the distance between them.
  • Basic disassembly, reassembly (like taking the legs off a dining table or removing a headboard from a bed & putting those items back together at destination), and pad wrapping of furniture.
  • Any additional services like packing and unpacking that may be required.


It’s important to understand whether the moving quotes you get are binding or non-binding. A slightly higher but binding estimate may be a better deal than a cheaper non-binding estimate. Some companies offer instant moving online quotes, but these ballpark estimates are not binding and are not as accurate as custom quotes based on a virtual or in-person survey. At Stewart, we work with you to find the right c
ost for a moving company for cross country moves. Explore the rest of our website and receive a quote today.


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Step-by-Step Process to Get Moving Company Quotes

Getting moving company quotes involves a step-by-step process to ensure you get the most accurate estimate for your move:



  1. Research: Before requesting a movers online quote, ensure the moving company is licensed and insured.
  2. Request a Quote: Enter your moving details on the company’s website, including moving dates, origin and destination zip codes, type of home, and contact information.
  3. Schedule a Survey: Arrange a time for the moving company to survey your belongings. This allows the company to see first-hand how much you own, what type of belongings you have, and any obstacles that might raise the estimate.
  4. Provide Detailed Information: To receive an accurate quote, provide comprehensive details about your moving requirements. If you are looking for a packers and movers quotation, make sure you address this. Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to inaccurate cost estimates.
  5. Understand the Quote: Know the difference between a binding and non-binding quote. A binding estimate is a written agreement showing the total cost of the move based on the weight of your belongings and the services needed. A non-binding estimate gives you a general idea of what you’ll pay for the move.
  6. Compare Movers Estimates and Moving Company Online Quotes: Compare mover’s quotations from different companies to ensure you’re getting the best value.


Remember, the goal is to avoid surprises when the final bill arrives. Getting a movers online quote, even
local moving quotes, ensures that your moving day is easy with few hiccups.

Schedule Your Survey with the Moving Company

To get a survey, start by reaching out to a company that you’re interested in. Then, you’ll want to decide what type of survey that you prefer.  At Stewart Moving & Storage we offer both in-home and virtual survey options with our online moving quote, including video, phone, or online surveys. Choose the method that best suits your needs. You will want to coordinate a suitable time for the survey to take place. Usually a  company’s Move Consultant will work with you to ensure the survey is both prompt and convenient. The last step is preparing for the survey by making sure all areas of your home are accessible for the survey and that you have a list of items you plan to move.

Surveying of Your Own Belongings

If you want to survey your own items without the assistance of a moving company, you can follow these easy steps. Knowing what you have can prepare you for your move or give you all the information you need when getting a movers online quote. 


  1. Start the Inventory: Select the first room you will be inventorying from your list.
  2. Detailed Inventory: Inspect each room in your home, making a detailed inventory of your belongings, including furniture, appliances, electronics, and personal items.
  3. Special Items: Make a note of any items that require special packing or of exceptionally high value..
  4. Estimate Resources: This inventory will help determine the number of boxes, packing materials, and the size of the moving truck required.
  5. Add Items: Add items to your inventory list as you go through each room.

Plan Your Move with Stewart Moving & Storage

Family carrying boxes into room together

Planning your move is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth transition to your new home or office. It involves organizing, packing, and coordinating logistics, which can be overwhelming. This is where Stewart Moving & Storage comes into play. With our professional and efficient services, we take the stress out of moving. Our team of experts handles everything from packing your belongings with utmost care to transporting them safely to your new location. We are known for our punctuality, reliability, and exceptional customer service. Choosing Stewart Moving & Storage means entrusting your move to experienced professionals who prioritize your satisfaction and peace of mind. So, for a hassle-free and seamless moving experience, Stewart Moving & Storage is the ideal choice. If you’d like to speak to one of our moving coordinators for a local or long distance moving quote call 804-258-6877 today.


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FAQ’s

  • What are Moving Add-Ons to Consider?

    When planning a move, consider add-ons such as packing and unpacking services, storage solutions, and specialty item handling for items like pianos or artwork.

  • How much does a moving service cost?

    The cost of a moving service can vary greatly, with local moves typically ranging from $800 to $2,500, and long-distance moves ranging from $3,000 to $8,000.

  • How many moving quotes should I obtain?

    It is recommended that you obtain at least three moving quotes to compare.

  • Are moving company quotes negotiable?

    Yes, moving company quotes are negotiable within reason based on the size of the job.

  • What do most movers charge per hour?

    On average, most movers charge between $60 to $80 per hour for a local move.

  • Is it normal for a moving company to ask for a deposit?

    Yes, it is normal for a moving company to ask for a deposit as a guarantee against cancellations, but the deposit should not exceed 25% of the total moving cost.


  • How do I make sure my moving company is legit?

    You should check customer reviews, verify its registration with the Department of Transportation and/ or the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), look for a ProMover or state association affiliations & certifications, confirm the company’s contact information, and be aware of common moving scams.

  • Is insurance coverage usually included in a movers online quote?

    A basic level of insurance coverage, known as released value protection, is typically included in a moving quote.

  • How to find trustworthy movers?

    To find trustworthy movers, consider getting at least three written in-home relocation moving company estimates, verifying the mover’s credentials, checking their references, and seeking recommendations from friends, family, or reliable associations like the American Moving and Storage Association.

  • What is the difference between instant ballpark quotes, moving quotes, or moving estimates?

    Instant ballpark moving quotes provide a quick, generalized idea of moving costs based on key factors like distance and size of residence, while moving quotes or estimates offer a more detailed, personalized assessment of relocation moving costs after a thorough evaluation of your belongings.


    To calculate business relocation costs, you should create a detailed plan that includes estimates for lease expenses, moving costs, service provider fees, and new expenses after the move.

  • What is a reasonable amount for moving expenses?

    The cost of moving can vary widely depending on home size. General costs for a local move are:

    • Studio/one-bedroom: $575 – $1250
    • Two-bedroom: $750 – $1,500
    • Three-bedroom: $1,250 – $2,500
    • Four-bedroom: $1,500 – $3,000

  • What is a reasonable moving budget?

    A reasonable moving budget of around $1,000 to $5,000 is common, but this can vary based on specific needs and circumstances.

  • How do you calculate how much it will cost to move?

    To calculate moving costs, consider factors such as the distance of the move, the volume and weight of your belongings, the type of moving service (full-service, self-service, or DIY), and any additional services like packing, storage, or insurance. Getting multiple quotes from different moving companies can help you estimate the total cost.


  • What is the most cost effective way to move?

    The most cost-effective way to move is to do it yourself (DIY) by renting a truck and enlisting the help of friends and family. Alternatively, you could hire a reputable company like Stewart to complete you move at a fair price.


  • How do you make a moving estimate?

    To make a moving estimate, inventory all your belongings, measure the volume and weight, and determine the distance of the move. Use online moving calculators or get quotes from multiple moving companies to compare costs. Include additional services like packing, storage, and insurance in your estimate.


  • What is the most expensive part of moving?

    The most expensive part of moving is often the shipping, especially for long-distance moves. This includes the cost of fuel, labor, and the use of moving trucks or containers.


  • How can I reduce my moving costs?

    To reduce moving costs, consider decluttering and selling or donating items you no longer need, packing your belongings yourself, using free or recycled packing materials, and scheduling your move during off-peak times when rates may be lower.

  • What costs should you consider when moving?

    When moving, consider costs such as hiring movers, renting a truck or container, packing supplies, transportation, insurance, storage, and any additional services like cleaning or temporary housing.

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