How is the cost of my household goods shipment calculated?
If you remember nothing else, remember this when moving long distance: Movers ESTIMATE weight, QUOTE rate. It’s vital that you determine how a particular moving company structures their estimates and how the numbers will function thereafter. It goes without saying that the vast majority of movers are decent, hard-working people who have neither the time nor the inclination to take advantage of consumers. Then you have predatory movers and brokers. They’re cunning. And they’re ruthless. The most common predatory sales practice in the moving industry is “low-balling,” and it’s done by simply underestimating the weight or volume of your shipment. The relocation consultant underestimates the weight of a shipment—most commonly over the phone or internet, in which case the 110% Rule does not protect you—with deliberate and malicious intent, and quotes a rate (55% tariff discount, or whatever). While the estimate you receive may appear cheaper than the others, remember: Your shipment weighs w
