If you're planning to move, one of the things you should do before committing to a removalist is to ask for a quote. Moving quotes provide a cost breakdown and should show a fairly accurate estimate of the total that you will be charged. Below, see some of the reasons why doing this so important.
Compare rates with other removalists
The standard reason why people ask for moving quotes is so that they can compare rates with other providers. And it remains a good way to carry out due diligence. Using a quote, you can check to see if you are being charged fair figures (not necessarily the cheapest). After all, you do not want to spend more than you ought to simply because you did not take the time to ask around.
Save up what you need
Moving can be expensive, especially if you are moving a large family from one end of the country to the other. For such moves, you absolutely need to save up. By asking for a moving quote, you get to know what your budget is. You cannot save without a budget in mind. And it's never good to assume about prices. Transport and labour costs change over time; you do not want a rude shock at the very last minute.
Make sure there are no hidden costs
A quote also allows you to ensure that there are no hidden costs in your pricing. Through the cost breakdown provided, you can check all the services you are being charged and interrogate each independently, e.g. labour, packing, vehicle hire, fuel, etc. If there is a cost that you don't understand, feel free to ask for an explanation.
Evaluate the costing of packaging materials
One optional cost that many prospective movers are often concerned about is packaging materials. Some removalists will offer you packaging materials for free and others will charge you. But because you can source packaging materials anywhere, a quote allows you to correctly evaluate if you should buy them elsewhere or go with what the removalist is offering.
Evaluate if you'd like more labour
If your moving quote is well within what you can afford, you can evaluate whether to ask for more labour. More labour (movers) means a faster removal and less time packing and less time carrying furniture into the truck(s). You can always ask for an extra man or two as long as you are ready to pay for it.
So make sure you always ask for a moving quote. Do this way in advance where possible to allow adequate planning on your end.