How to Compare Moving Company Quotes

Tap a step to see how to compare moving company quotes.

  1. Decide on the type of move first

    A full-service move has the company handle everything from packing to unpacking; a partial-service move has the company pack only large furniture and appliances while you pack the rest yourself; and a basic move (just the truck and labor) only transports items you've already packed. Deciding which type fits your budget and time first makes it possible to compare quotes accurately.

  2. Get quotes from at least three companies

    Use a moving-quote comparison platform or call around to get quotes from at least three companies. Give everyone the same details -- square footage of both homes, floor level, elevator access, and whether a ladder truck is needed -- so the quotes are comparable on equal terms.

  3. Review exactly what's included in each quote

    Check whether the quote includes ladder-truck fees, appliance disconnect/reconnect charges, waste disposal fees, and night or weekend surcharges on top of the base labor cost. Compare line items, not just the total, to avoid surprise charges on moving day.

  4. Verify the company and its reviews

    Check whether the company is properly licensed as a moving carrier through your country's transport authority or business registry, and search recent reviews and any complaint history to confirm it's trustworthy.

  5. What to check before signing and paying a deposit

    Make sure the contract specifies the moving date, crew size, total cost, and the damage-compensation terms, and confirm whether a standard moving-services agreement applies. It's safer to pay only a small deposit after signing, with the balance due upon completion.

Why comparing quotes matters

Under the same conditions, moving companies can quote very different totals and include very different line items. Rather than comparing the bottom-line number alone, compare the type of move, what's itemized, and how trustworthy the company appears -- that's what actually prevents surprise charges on moving day.

Check your full moving timeline too

While you're comparing quotes, it's worth reviewing a broader moving checklist -- covering everything from a few weeks before the move through the days right after -- to make your overall preparation much smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a partial-service move cheaper than a full-service move?

Generally, a full-service move costs the most, followed by partial-service, then a basic move -- but the labor and time you take on yourself increases as the price drops, so weigh cost against convenience when choosing.

What should I watch out for most when comparing quotes?

A quote that looks unusually cheap often comes with added charges after the contract is signed, so check the itemized breakdown -- not just the total -- and confirm the company's official registration status.