How Costs Are Determined

What are my charges based on?

For an interstate move, your charges are based on the weight of your shipment, together with the mileage between origin and destination. At the time of your estimate, your moving counselor will be happy to explain the itemized charges on your estimate, which would include any packing, crating, uncrating and transit protection. For more information on moving charges, go to "How Moving Charges Are Determined".

How can I obtain an estimate of moving costs?

To receive an estimate call us toll free at 1-800-632-6344.  If you are local in the area call us at 503-233-5271 in Portland, Oregon or 360-693-4779 in Vancouver, Washington.

Don't get estimated costs from the computer over the internet. A smart shopper will get professional advice free of charge.  It will be the most accurate, and you can expect to have all your questions answered.

What is the difference between a binding and non-binding estimate?

A non-binding estimate requires you to pay based on the actual weight of your shipment and the actual services performed. There is no limit. A binding estimate is a price guaranteed not to be exceeded unless additional services are performed that are not specifically listed on your paperwork. You must complete additional paperwork for any items to be added to your shipment or to have additional services provided.

Where do "extra charges" come from?

Do you have an attic, crawl space or storage shed? Often these storage areas are forgotten when working up an estimate and remembered only when it is time to load the truck. The cost of moving additional items stored in these places would have to be added to the estimate. To avoid this situation, be sure you have shown all of these areas to your moving counselor at the time of the estimate.

What if the truck can't park up close to the house?

If we are not able to park the truck close to an entrance to your home, you may be charged for a "long carry". Often tree branches grow low over roadways not allowing for the height of a truck. Narrow streets and driveways can restrict accessibility to your home, making it necessary for the driver and helpers to carry your belongings a longer-than-normal distance. If the distance from your home to the truck is too great for the driver and helpers to carry your belongings, we may need to load your belongings on a smaller "shuttle" truck before placing them on the actual moving van. Use of a shuttle truck is also an additional charge.

What payment options are available?

Most moves require payment upon delivery by either cash, certified check or money order. Other payment options such as credit card and 90-days same as cash may be pre-arranged. Discuss these options with your moving counselor to select the one that works best for you. In the event that your employer is paying for the move, the employer may pre-arrange be billed via invoice. Whatever payment option best meets your needs, be sure that all the arrangements are made before your belongings are packed and loaded.

Blue Bird is a family owned Portland Moving Company in existence since 1928. If you are looking for Portland movers for residential moves or corporate relocations, call us at: 503-233-5271 or use our inquiry form here. We not only move within the Portland Metro area, but also throughout the Northwest, the US and internationally.