10 Dos and Donts Before Your Moving In-Home Estimate

1. Do start early!

It’s never too early to contact a mover. As soon as you decide to move, start making phone calls. Even if you are unsure of exactly where or when you are moving, you can still get estimates from your local moving companies. Select a few movers you are interested working with, and set up an in-home survey. You can always fill in details later. With Corrigan, there is no penalty for changing or cancelling your dates should you change your mind. Many people are nervous that they might “jinx” their house sale, but we promise to only bring good vibes! You can set an appointment up to 6 months before your move. Also, the earlier you book, the more savings you are likely to see!

2. Don’t buy packing material!

Some companies (including us) offer free or discounted packing material and boxes to our booked customers. Nothing makes us more disappointed than a customer who just spent hundreds of dollars on boxes that they could have gotten from us at discounted prices, or even better, for free!

3. Do decide what you are taking!

Before the estimate you should have a fairly solid idea of what items you are taking. If you are still deciding on a few items, it’s always best to include them on the initial estimate. Remember, estimates and inventories can ALWAYS be revised if you change your mind.

4. Do your research!

Make sure the movers you are inviting out are reputable companies. Refer to websites like movingscam.com and the BBB, and look for the ProMover certification from the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Read reviews from actual customers. Every company representative will tell you how wonderful they are, but do your own research.

5. Do have in-home estimates done!

If a company refuses to do a free in-home estimate, start asking questions. Having the in-home estimate is not only the most accurate way to estimate your moving charges, but estimators are also able to account for extra factors such as tractor trailer access, the length of your driveway, and special moving equipment that may be needed.

6. Don’t have a friend or realtor take your place at the estimate!

Sometimes this is unavoidable, which is understandable. But the best thing to do is to take an afternoon off of work and dedicate that time to have 2 or 3 movers come out. Personally meeting with and hearing from the people who will be handling everything you own is a great way to give yourself extra peace-of-mind as well.

7. Do have a list of questions for each mover!

Though most moving companies offer similar services, most companies have different policies. Does every company’s valuation cover your boxes if you pack them? Do they charge extra for stair carries? Having a list of questions like this will really help you make an educated decision on which mover is right for you.

8. Don’t pack everything before the estimate!

If you have everything packed before the estimate, that works too! But, don’t feel the need to have everything boxed before the estimators come. Estimators are trained to look at unpacked items in your closets and cupboards and estimate the required boxes needed. Even better, most movers will provide you their inventory with a breakdown of how many boxes and the type of boxes you’ll need to get everything packed!

9. Do keep your inventory consistent!

If you are speaking with multiple companies, be sure to tell each one the exact same items to be moved and packed. Many times, your inventories will differ between the first company and third, because of cost or suggestions made by other companies. Keep everything the same, or revise any changes with the first company you spoke with. This way, once you have all of your estimates you can really compare apples to apples. Remember, you can always make changes to your estimate and inventories once you select your mover!

10. Do choose Corrigan!

With over 90 years in business, we only have our dedicated customers to thank! Our employees take great pride in our work and are always aware that we aren’t just moving items, we’re moving lives. If you want to truly experience craftsmanship, choose us. You'll be glad you did!