A low phone quote can become an expensive moving-day surprise when the inventory, access conditions or company role were never written down. Interstate moves have federal consumer protections, but households still need to read the paperwork before loading begins.
Build one complete inventory
Include boxes, furniture, garage items, stairs, elevators, long carries, shuttle access, packing, storage and special handling. Ask each company to price the same scope after an in-person or virtual survey.
Know the estimate type
A binding estimate generally fixes what is due for the listed shipment and services. A non-binding estimate can change with actual weight and services. Added items or changed conditions can require a revised written estimate before loading.
Verify the company
Check FMCSA registration and complaint information, confirm whether the business is a carrier or broker, and read the order for service, bill of lading, valuation choice and inventory before signing.
The HomeCostGrid view
Keep photos of the shipment and signed documents outside the truck. Avoid blank forms, large untraceable deposits and vague delivery dates, and reserve 10–15% for legitimate access or schedule changes that are documented in advance.
