Three Moving Companies, One Inventory List. How to Compare Them for Mom's Move.

Moving companies often sound alike on the phone. The difference shows up in the written estimate, the inventory, and the fine print about damage and extra charges. The easiest way to compare them is to give every company the same list of what is moving, then read what each one actually promises.

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Build one inventory first

Walk through Mom's house with a list. Note the rooms, the large furniture, the boxes already packed, the items going to storage, and the items going to donation or to family. Mark anything that needs special handling, such as a piano, a heavy safe, or a mirror that has to be wrapped. Note stairs, narrow doorways, and any tight driveway, because access is labor, and labor is what drives the estimate.

Ask what kind of estimate you are getting

Ask whether the estimate is binding or non-binding, and what would change it. Ask whether the company will come to the house to look, or whether it is estimating from a phone call or a photo. A quote from a single call is a guess, and a guess tends to grow on moving day.

Check what is covered if something breaks

Ask what the company's liability coverage is and how it applies to each item. Ask how you declare the value of valuable items, what the claim process looks like, and how long a claim takes. Get the answers in writing. If the company will not put them in writing, that is information too.

Compare what is included

Packing, unpacking, furniture assembly, stairs, elevator use, insurance, storage time, and the loading and unloading crew are each a line item. Two estimates that look close can differ by everything they leave out. Put each included item next to each other on the same sheet, and mark what is missing.

Check who signs and who is on the truck

Confirm who signs the contract, who is authorized to approve changes on moving day, and what happens if the crew finds more than the inventory listed. Ask who will be at the house during the move and whether one family member has to be present for the whole day. Name that person on the list, and name the backup too.

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