The first thing that is desirable when you hire a moving company is that a representative visits your place and gives you a written moving estimate. You should read the moving estimate carefully to see what type of billing method the company is using to make the estimate. There are basically two kinds of billing methods. One is based on per unit weight basis and the other is on the volume basis. If the company agrees to offer any kind of discount, make sure it is stated clearly in your moving estimate.

Here are some points that you need to look for in your moving estimate.
1.Packing costs: It is very important that the details about the packing expenses are clearly mentioned in your moving estimate document. The packing costs may be as high as 50% of the total billing estimate. Clarify if the moving estimate given by the company includes packing and unpacking costs. Find out if the moving estimate includes the packing material costs. Most of the moving companies charge extra for special packing of the breakables and for special packing materials
2.Loading and unloading charges: The moving estimate should clearly state about the loading and unloading charges. If your present or the place of relocation does not have a place for parking of truck, the moving companies employ smaller trailers for moving your goods. In this case, they charge you extra. Clarify about these terms well in advance and have a written commitment about these charges.
3.Insurance: Many people are ignorant about their right of getting insurance on their stuff. The moving companies are bound to insure your goods at a specific rate. Get the terms clearly written in your moving estimate document.
4.Discounts: If the moving company has agreed to pay any kind of special facility free of cost or any kind of discount, it is always wise to get it chalked down in the moving estimate document. This will avoid any kind of confusion in billing in the end.

remember, many people rely upon the verbal estimates that the moving companies give to their clients. This is the biggest mistake on the part of the consumer. It is extremely essential that you have every thing in writing about the moving estimate to avoid any confusion in the end. In case you come across a company that insists on verbal communication rather than written, it is wise to move on another one.