When you are doing a house removal it's essential to understand what's behind the moving company's estimates - this will help you choose the right company to hire and you wouldn't feel like you are paying for something you weren't informed of.
Binding or Non-Binding: The fees of the moving companies vary and everybody knows that. However, what also varies is the way they calculate the costs of the services. Some removals companies offer a rate that is based on a pre-calculated weight or the so called non-binding estimate. Others, however, base their rates on binding estimates, which means that they provide you a firm estimate. This means that the amount in your initial quote will be the amount you have to pay. This is also different from the estimate not-to-exceed which is the case when the moving company guarantees that your final fee won't exceed the original quote. The amount can be less than the agreed upon, provided that the weight of the move is less too. When it comes to the different types of estimates there are other rules that surround the deal. In general, before you choose the mover you should know the types of these estimates, so you can choose the best option for your move.

Perhaps the most commonly used estimate is the one that guarantees non-exceeding estimate. However, keep in mind that the movers can easily overestimate your move in the first place. This makes it harder to compare different companies' prices. Its advantage is that you don't risk going over your budget and paying more than you can actually afford. 

The Weight: It's easy to compare the differences in the prices per kilo between the different companies. Keep in mind that the cost per weight is not the only determinant for the entire cost of your house move though. There are other elements which are just as important and can add up to the quote considerably. These additional charges include the distance of the move and accessorial charges during the moving day. The weight charge is only one consideration when it comes to the final fee you have to pay. In order to not pay extra for weight, make sure you don't take unwanted items. Even if you are doing a quick move and you haven't had much time to plan it all, spend some time going through old things or items that you simply don't use anymore. Getting rid of them will help you save some money from the house move, as well as money for the packing material and unpacking time.

The Distance: One of the key determinants for the move's cost is the distance. You can't expect a small fee for an interstate move, no matter which company you hire. A long move is a long move, despite the discounts. Inform yourself on how much the mover charges per kilometer or mile. If you want to figure out the true distance use an online mapping system. You need to make sure that you own estimate matches the one stated by the removals company. Take into consideration the weight and the distance estimates. Some companies charge more for one and less for the other. If you are doing a local move then distance won't be that big of a factor.

Extra Fees: If you own items that require special handling and packing, be prepared to pay extra. If you neglect to notify the mover about such items they will surely charge you more.