Is My Moving Quote Too High? 9 Checks Before You Pay

Do not judge the number by itself

A quote is only meaningful when you know what it covers. A higher total may include packing, stairs, long carries, storage, a larger inventory, or stronger protection. A lower total may leave those items out.

1. Confirm the inventory

Make sure the furniture, boxes, appliances, fragile items, and specialty items match what you plan to move. Missing items can make a quote look lower than the eventual bill.

2. Check the pricing basis

Find whether the price is based on weight, volume, hours, inventory, distance, or another method. Ask the company to identify the main estimated total in writing.

3. Identify the estimate type

Look for binding, non-binding, or binding not-to-exceed language. The label and written terms affect how the price may change.

4. Match the services

Compare loading, transportation, unloading, packing, materials, disassembly, reassembly, storage, and any shuttle service. Two prices are not comparable when the services differ.

5. Find every extra-charge trigger

Look for stairs, elevator delays, long carries, parking restrictions, bulky items, waiting time, fuel, tolls, storage, additional stops, and changes to inventory or access.

6. Review the deposit and cancellation terms

Confirm the deposit amount, who receives it, whether it is refundable, the cancellation deadline, and the accepted payment methods.

7. Consider the timing

Peak dates, short notice, weekends, long-distance routes, and narrow pickup windows may affect pricing. Ask which timing assumptions are included.

8. Verify the company and its role

For an interstate move, check the legal name and USDOT number through FMCSA. Determine whether the company is the carrier or a broker arranging transportation.

9. Compare written quotes side by side

Get two or three written estimates based on the same shipment and conditions. Compare the scope before comparing the totals.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a moving quote is too high?

Compare it with written estimates based on the same inventory, services, dates, access conditions, and estimate type.

Why are two moving quotes so different?

They may use different inventories, weight or volume assumptions, labor hours, services, access charges, valuation options, or estimate types.

Should I choose the cheapest quote?

Not automatically. Confirm that each quote covers the same shipment and explains possible price changes.

General educational information only. Federal guidance cited here applies to interstate household-goods moves; state and local requirements may differ. Official source: FMCSA Protect Your Move.