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Will Your Long Distance Moving Quote Increase Risk Assessment Tool

The moving quote tool below helps determine if your long distance moving quote is reasonably accurate or at risk of a price increase on moving day.

Input the required fields to the best of your knowledge. If you’re unsure how to answer a question, select “Not sure.” If the tool indicates a moderate to high risk of a price increase, contact your mover to clarify the details before moving day.

At this point, we have completed almost 7,000 long distance moves and have noticed that the main concern people have with hiring movers is sudden price increases. This is very concerning for those relocating on a budget and aren't sure if hiring professional movers is something that they can afford.

 

This is why American National Movers created a tool that can help you assess whether you got a reasonably accurate quote or if there is a moderate to high risk of your long distance moving quote increasing on loading day.

Average Volume Based On Home Size

The chart below is created to help you gauge if your estimated weight or volume is reasonably accurate based on industry averages. If your volume doesn't match within the typical cubic foot or weight ranges, your move may be smaller, or your quote may not be accurate.

Why Movers Charge More Than Estimated

The FMCSA allows interstate movers a degree of leniency regarding estimate changes because determining the exact volume or weight of household goods isn't always easy. However, this has put consumers in stressful situations where price gouging, low-ball quotes, and unprofessional behavior may occur.

Pro Tip

While estimates are legally allowed to change, reputable movers do not substantially raise costs. If a price change occurs, it should be due to a change in the scope of the move, rather than the addition of random hidden fees.

Intentional Low-Balling.

Start-up moving companies that aren’t established may intentionally low-ball your quote to earn your business, even if the price is unrealistic. On loading day, they will raise the price by 50-100% and blame the price change on your estimate being inaccurate.

Pro Tip

A long distance moving company can legally raise your estimated cost at any time before or during your move. Even if the estimate is off because your sales estimator made a mistake, the price increase still falls on you. That’s why it’s important to hire a reputable brand and ensure your quote is reasonably accurate.

Inexperienced Estimators

In many cases, estimators are simply sales representatives who lack the field experience to accurately judge weight or cubic footage. This is why using our 2026 Risk Diagnostic Tool is vital; it cross-references your quoted volume against industry-average operational costs to see if the math actually adds up.

Pro Tip

If your moving estimate seems too good to be true and is much cheaper than every other long distance movers charges, it usually is. Check your long distance movers reviews to ensure you're hiring a company that generally honors their rates. 

Carrier Vs Broker

Carriers are a safer option, but a carrier may still broker your move, and many do for the delivery portion.  Brokers act as middlemen but may offer lower prices. However, when working with a interstate moving broker, if something goes wrong their selected carrier is held accountable, not the broker.

Pro Tip

What matters most is whether the company you're hiring has a good reputation, regardless if you went with a carrier or broker.

Hidden Fees In Moving You Should Know 

Here are hidden fees that many people overlook when hiring long distance movers.

Additional Resources Regarding Long Distance Moving Costs

If you’re researching long distance moving costs, pricing structures, or estimate accuracy, the resources below provide deeper explanations and real-world examples.

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