When you’re preparing for a move—especially a long-distance or cross-country relocation—the last thing you want is a surprise when it comes to your bill. At Coastal Moving Services, we understand how stressful moving can be, and we believe one of the best ways to ease that stress is by being completely upfront and transparent about what your move will cost. That starts with the quote.
But what exactly goes into a moving quote? How is pricing calculated? And why do some quotes vary from others? Let’s break it all down, so you know exactly what you’re paying for and why.
What Makes Up a Moving Quote?
Your moving quote is a detailed estimate of the cost of transporting your belongings from one place to another. But it’s not just a random number—it’s based on regulated tariffs set by third-party carriers. This system ensures that pricing is consistent, fair, and rooted in industry standards. Here’s what usually factors into your quote:
- Distance of the Move
It’s simple: the farther you’re moving, the higher the cost. That’s because longer distances involve more fuel, more time, and potentially more logistical coordination. - Weight or Volume of Items
Most long-distance carriers base pricing on either the total weight or volume of the shipment. Heavier and bulkier items take up more space on the truck and use more fuel, which adds to the cost. - Type of Service Chosen
Are you looking for full-service packing and unpacking? Or are you just hiring movers to transport your already-boxed items? The level of service plays a big role in your overall cost. - Access and Location Challenges
If the movers have to navigate stairs, tight hallways, elevators, or long driveways, that may add a labor fee. Similarly, rural or hard-to-reach destinations could increase the cost due to extra planning or equipment. - Seasonal Demand
Moving during peak seasons—like summer or the end of the month—can be more expensive simply due to demand. Think of it like airline tickets: the more people moving at a given time, the higher the prices.
Third-Party Carrier Tariffs: What Are They?
At Coastal Moving Services, we work with a network of licensed and insured third-party carriers. Each of these carriers has a federally regulated tariff—a standardized pricing structure filed with the Department of Transportation. These tariffs determine how costs are calculated based on various factors, such as those listed above.
This is important to understand because it means that when we provide a quote, it’s not just a rough guess—it’s built using real pricing data from real, vetted carriers. That’s also why some flexibility is needed during your move: actual charges may change if the weight or volume of your items differs from the original estimate. But you’ll always be kept in the loop.
Our Commitment to Transparent Pricing
We’ve heard the horror stories—unexpected fees, surprise bills, last-minute charges. That’s not how we do business. At Coastal Moving Services, transparency is part of our core values. When we provide a quote, we break it down so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
Here’s how we ensure pricing clarity:
Detailed Breakdowns
You’ll receive a clear estimate outlining the major cost components—transportation, labor, any optional services, and anticipated taxes or tolls. If additional fees are possible (e.g., storage or last-minute changes), we’ll tell you upfront.
No Hidden Fees
If something changes along the way, we’ll let you know before it affects the price. We don’t believe in hidden charges or surprise invoices. We want you to feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Dedicated Support
Our team is available to walk you through your quote and answer any questions. If something doesn’t make sense, we’ll explain it. If something seems off, we’ll double-check it.
How to Prepare for Your Quote
To get the most accurate estimate possible, it helps to be prepared. Here are a few ways to help us give you the clearest picture of your moving costs:
- Inventory your items: A detailed list of what you’re moving helps us calculate weight and volume more accurately.
- Be honest about access: Let us know about stairs, narrow hallways, elevators, or limited parking. The more we know, the fewer surprises there’ll be later.
- Plan your move dates: If you can be flexible, you may be able to avoid peak pricing times.
- Decide on the level of service: Will you need help packing or just transportation? This affects both cost and time.
The more accurate the information you provide at the beginning, the better we can tailor your quote to match your actual needs.
What to Expect After You Receive Your Quote
Once you receive your quote, our job is to help you understand it—not pressure you to accept it. We’ll talk through the details, explain anything that’s unclear, and help you make a confident decision.
If you decide to move forward, we’ll coordinate with the selected carrier, lock in your dates, and confirm the plan. You’ll receive updates throughout the process, and we’re always here to answer questions as your move approaches.
Why Transparency Matters
Moving can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to finances. That’s why Coastal Moving Services puts such a strong emphasis on honest pricing and open communication. You’re trusting us with your belongings, your time, and your money—and we take that trust seriously.
Whether you’re relocating for a job, moving closer to family, or just starting a new adventure, you deserve a moving experience that’s as smooth and stress-free as possible. That starts with a quote you can trust.
More Than Just a Number
Your quote is more than a price tag—it’s the foundation for your moving experience. When it’s built on real data, transparent processes, and open communication, you know you’re in good hands.
At Coastal Moving Services, we believe you should never feel left in the dark about your move. From your first phone call to the moment your last box is unpacked, we’re here to support you—with honesty, clarity, and a commitment to doing things the right way.
