Start Your Move with a Quote That Works for You

Moving quotes provide customers with an estimated price range for their move. These quotes can be very helpful in determining costs across various moving companies. After we can gather more information about your move, we can give you an estimate, which provides a more accurate price for your move.

At Mayflower, we aim to simplify the moving quote process so that you can make the right decision for your move and your budget.

We understand that customers want to review comparative pricing and moving services before they hire a long-distance mover. With that in mind, we strive to provide moving quotes in a timely manner so you can move forward confidently with the decision making process.

Benefits of Getting Moving Quotes

Getting a moving quote isn’t just a first step — it’s a smart move. Whether you're moving locally or long-distance, by yourself or hiring a moving company, an upfront quote provides clarity and helps you stay in control. With a detailed quote, you can:

• Build a realistic moving budget
• Compare pricing and services from different movers
• Prevent unexpected costs on moving day
• Organize your move with greater peace of mind

Whether you’re planning a local move or relocating across the country, knowing what goes into a moving quote puts you in control.

What Affects the Accuracy of Your Moving Quote?

Factors that may influence moving company quotes and prices

1. Date of Your Move:

   Pay attention to your moving date. Various times of the year can impact the cost of your move. If you have the flexibility, ask your moving company if there are certain timeframes that may be more cost-effective for you.

2. Seasonality: 

   Generally speaking, summer months are the most in-demand months for moving, due to ideal temperatures and favorable moving conditions. Your moving quote may be lower if you move during “non-peak season” dates. Peak season dates tend to fall during the May, June, July, August and September.

3. Distance of Your Move: 

   The distance between your old and new home can influence your moving quote price. Expect to have a higher cost the further the distance to your move destination.

4. Size of Your Home: 

   Many times, the size of your home can affect your moving costs. For example, a minimalist who lives in a studio apartment likely has fewer belongings than someone who lives in a fully furnished four-bedroom home. Since many moving quotes are based on the weight and/or volume of your belongings, the size of your home can affect your moving quote as well.

5. Weight of Your Belongings:

   Some moving quotes are calculated on weight; therefore, heavier items may lead to higher moving quotes. Many movers even set their charges based on a minimum weight. This is sometimes one of the most overlooked factors that is used to calculate your moving quote.

6. Moving Add-Ons:

   Large moving companies like Mayflower offer a range of add-on services designed to make your move more convenient and efficient. These extras can elevate your experience — but they often come with an additional cost. Popular optional services include professional packing and unpacking, TV mounting and setup, debris and packing material removal.

7. Moving Protection:

   The level of moving protection – i.e., what your mover’s liability will be in the event of unforeseen loss or damage to your belongings – that you select can change the cost of your moving quote. All interstate movers are required to offer a minimum amount of moving protection to customers, also known as valuation. Mayflower includes its basic Full-Value Protection in every initial quote. However, you can also elect a less-expensive “Minimum Protection” option and/or purchase additional amounts of Full Value Protection if you choose.Learn more about our moving protection options.

8. Storage Costs:

   Depending on the complexity of your move, you may need short or long-term storage. Including storage as part of your long-distance move will increase your moving quote.

Types of Moving Quotes and Estimates

Understanding moving quotes can be confusing, especially when different terms get tossed around. One common point of confusion is the difference between an instant ballpark quote and a more detailed moving quote or estimate. Here’s what you need to know:  

Instant Ballpark Quotes

Simply put, an instant ballpark quote is a very rough estimate that is based on the limited information that you provide to a moving company. It may not be the actual price that you will pay. Use instant ballpark moving quotes as a starting point in gauging your moving costs.

Moving Quotes and Estimates

A moving quote or moving estimate is more involved compared to an instant ballpark quote. Moving quotes require you to provide more information to the moving company and for the mover to view the items in your home that you need to have moved. Here, at Mayflower, we offer both in-home and virtual walk-throughs so that estimators can see your belongings, the layout of your home and the areas in which the movers will enter and exit your home. During these walk-throughs, estimators review any special requirements that you may have and answer your questions and concerns. Soon after your walk-through, you’ll receive your official moving quote.