Written Moving Estimate

First Rate Movers will not book moves without first providing an estimate of moving costs in writing and having clients respond in agreement to that estimate. Clients will be required to fill out an estimate request form providing us with a list of the furniture to be moved, a rough estimate of the number of boxes involved, and other pertinent information such as access at the addresses involved. Upon receiving this information, we will respond with a detailed estimate. For larger moves, an on-site visit is often required. For any move that involves packing or special preparations, a representative must do a visual walk through.

The estimate serves two purposes:

1. It provides the customer with a detailed explanation of the estimated cost, minimum charge, any surcharges, insurance coverage and limitations, responsibilities, cancellation policies, and accepted payment methods.
2. The acceptance of the estimate constitutes a legally binding agreement for both parties. It holds the customer resposible for using the services as per the terms agreed to. It holds the company responsible for its comittment to arrive at the scheduled time and charge for services in a manner consistent with the terms of the estimate.

Booking a moving company without a written estimate leaves consumers open to fraud. Even with reputable moving companies, the lack of a written estimate can lead to misunderstandings and resulting arguments over what was agreed upon. Any properly operating, legitimate service company should always provide a cost estimate in writing on company letterhead or by e-mail from a company e-mail address. With modernization of the industry, estimates are often provided by e-mail. However, e-mail addresses are often anonymous or not obviously reflective of who the sender is. For this reason, consumers should insist that such estimates be sent from a company e-mail address that reflects that company's website address.