Get your
quote
And first, what you need straight so the price does not move.
A quote is only worth anything if it carries the volume in cubic metres, the floor and lift at both addresses, and an express statement of whether fees and permits are included. Without those three, the phone price is not the moving-day price.
What whoever quotes you needs to know
The four detailsThe most expensive quoting error in this corridor: giving the volume in cubic feet when the quote assumes cubic metres. There is a factor of 35 between them. “650 cube” can mean 18 m3 or 650 m3. A room is 5 to 10 m3. If you do not know, say so — it beats guessing. There is a guide to estimating it.
The origin alone is not enough. The stairs surcharge applies at both, and a small lift costs more than no lift because it forces a furniture hoist.
On this coast a removal is priced by the last fifty metres, not by the distance driven. Volume sets the base rate; what turns EUR 400 into EUR 700 is whether the lorry can park at the door, whether there is a lift, and whether a furniture hoist is needed.
A written quote is obligatory before the move and must state explicitly whether municipal fees and permits are included. Once accepted it is proof that the contract exists and of what it contains.
If it does not say, ask in writingAbout the quote
Frequently askedIs it free to ask for a quote?
Yes. And by law the written quote is obligatory before the move, not a favour the firm does you.
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three. More rarely adds anything and slows the decision. What matters is that they are comparable: same volume, same dates, same services.
Why do they ask for volume rather than floor area?
Because the lorry fills by volume, not by area. An empty 80 m2 flat and one with twenty years of belongings in it are two different moves. The useful conversion is 5 to 10 m3 per room.
Is a fixed quote better than hourly?
For a household move, almost always. Hourly looks cheaper in the offer and costs more on the invoice. We compare them on fixed price or hourly.
What if extras appear on the day?
If the accepted quote did not cover them, you have an argument: the accepted quote proves the contents of the contract. A firm may exclude the transport arbitration board in writing, and it has to do so before the service begins. If it does not, and you are claiming under EUR 15,000, the board has jurisdiction: free, no lawyer, binding award. Look for that clause before you sign.
How quickly will I hear back?
It depends on the season. In January or October, usually the same or next day. In July and August availability collapses and you should be asking weeks ahead, not days.