The Importance of Accurate Moving Estimates
A moving estimate is often a customer's first impression of your company. Lowball estimates may win the initial booking, but they destroy trust on moving day when the real costs emerge. Conversely, overestimating drives customers to competitors. The best moving companies invest time in thorough surveys and transparent estimating because it leads to higher customer satisfaction, fewer disputes, and more referrals.
Building a Comprehensive Moving Estimate
An effective moving estimate breaks down every anticipated cost:
- Inventory assessment — estimated cubic feet or weight based on room-by-room walkthrough
- Labor projection — crew size and estimated hours based on inventory volume and access conditions
- Vehicle requirements — truck size, whether multiple trips are needed, and long-distance mileage
- Packing labor and materials — estimated time for packing services and projected material quantities
- Specialty handling — items requiring crating, extra manpower, or specialized equipment
- Insurance and valuation — coverage options with associated premiums
- Potential additional charges — stairs, elevators, long carries, waiting time, and storage
Estimating Best Practices for Moving Companies
Always conduct a visual survey — in-person or via video call — before providing an estimate. Phone-based estimates using "how many bedrooms?" lead to the widest variance between estimated and actual costs. During the survey, ask about items in closets, garages, attics, and storage units that customers often forget to mention.
Use industry-standard weight guides: a typical three-bedroom house weighs approximately 7,500 to 10,000 pounds. Apply your per-pound rate or hourly rate based on this assessment and document your assumptions so the customer understands how you arrived at the number.
Present the estimate with a realistic range (for example, $2,800–$3,400) rather than a single figure. This honesty builds trust and reduces the shock if the actual cost comes in above the midpoint. Note the factors that could push costs toward the higher or lower end.
Create Your Moving Estimate
BillThemToday's free estimate generator helps you build professional moving estimates with detailed line items and cost ranges. Present customers with polished, easy-to-read estimates that showcase your company's professionalism and thoroughness.