IMPORTANT ESTIMATE INFORMATION

The Difference Between a Quote and an Estimate:

A quote (or flat-rate price) is a fixed price offer to perform a job within a specific time frame. A quote is usually legally binding, meaning once given to a potential customer, it cannot be changed unless the customer requests something outside the initial scope of work. Flat-rate pricing is often set higher by companies to prevent potential financial loss if the job takes longer than expected.

An estimate, on the other hand, is a rough, educated guess of how much the job might cost, based on the information available at the time. Estimates are not binding.

Most moving companies offer estimates (not quotes) and charge by the hour for the actual time it takes to complete the job.

Please note that, as moving companies, we can never know exactly how long a move will take.

It is very common in the moving industry to offer “free estimates,” and we often receive calls or emails asking for a quote. At NLM, we do not offer flat-rate pricing, as we charge by the hour for our services. We are happy to provide an estimated time and cost – based on averages from jobs of similar size, scope, and characteristics. These estimates are also informed by the details provided by prospective clients or through an in-person walk-through assessment. The more information we have, the more accurate the estimate will be.

Lower estimates do not necessarily equate to lower completion costs.

It is common for prospective clients to inquire with multiple companies for estimates and then choose the lowest one. However, it is important to note that sometimes people request estimates without an in-person walk-through, which leads to an inaccurate “guess” rather than an informed estimate. Going with the lowest guess is not the best way to assess the potential cost of moving services. This is a common reality in the moving industry, and many companies are aware that prospective clients often choose the lowest estimate, tempting some moving companies to offer low-ball figures just to secure the job.

At NLM, we will not intentionally low-ball an estimate to get the job.

Our goal is to provide the most honest and accurate estimates possible, usually in the form of a range of hours, based on the specific logistical details and job characteristics. However, estimates in the moving industry are never exact, as many variables affect the time required to complete the job. This is why we offer an estimated range.

The time it takes to complete a move is directly influenced by factors such as: ease of access, the type and quantity of items being moved, and very importantly, how organized the client is before our team arrives. The more prepared and organized you are, the less time the move will take.

NLM cannot guarantee exact completion times, but we can promise a timely, efficient, and professional moving service.

Ultimately, the most important factors in determining the value of a moving service are the hourly rate charged, the fees added, and the skill of the team dispatched to perform the work – not just the estimate provided.

For helpful tips on how to prepare for your move and save money, please refer to the document titled “How to Prepare for Your Move and Save Money,” located in the footer section of this page.

What New Level Movers Offers:

NLM is priced just above budget moving companies but offers a consistent, high-value service. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more hardworking, efficient team of professionals. Check out our reviews on our website and Google for positive feedback from our satisfied clients.

Competitive rates + a hardworking, efficient team = great value!

How to Choose the Right Moving Company and Get the Best Value:

1. Do your due diligence: Ask around, visit their website, and read reviews from people who have used their services.

2. Does the company ask for all the pertinent information related to your service requirements?

3. What is the hourly rate for the service, including the truck size and the number of team members?

4. What fees are added to the service? Most companies charge a fee or fees of some sort, so it’s important to ask about these.

5. Are they fully insured? Liability, cargo, and worker’s compensation insurance are important. Fully insured moving companies usually charge more due to the higher insurance costs.

6. Do they showcase their work? Look for pictures of past jobs that demonstrate their abilities, level of organization, and attention to detail.

7. Is supporting a local small business important to you? If so, seek out highly-rated, smaller local moving companies. Ask where they are based.