Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates: What’s the Difference?
Here’s the quick answer: A binding estimate locks in the amount you’ll pay for your move, while a non-binding estimate is subject to change depending on the actual weight of your belongings and other key factors.
While binding estimates are typically the better option, non-binding estimates can be useful in comparison shopping the best moving companies.
What is a moving estimate & why does it matter?
A moving estimate is a moving company’s best approximation of your total costs based on your specific relocation details. Moving quotes are heavily influenced by the size, so your price could change if you underestimate how much stuff you have.
Typically, movers calculate cost based on the total weight of your belongings, but in some cases, they may look at the estimated cubic feet of your belongings. From there, they will factor in distance and other factors — like whether movers will have to haul items up and down stairs — and will give you a binding, non-binding, or “not-to-exceed” quote. Make sure you receive a quote in writing.
This written estimate should include all relevant information for your quote, including size, transportation and storage costs, liability coverage, taxes and fees, and charges for any additional services you select.
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Binding vs. non-ninding estimates: Definitions
Before you book a mover, it’s important to understand the differences between the two — including positives and potential downsides — so you can get the most accurate pricing possible.
What is a binding moving estimate?
A binding moving estimate guarantees the amount you will pay for your move. Even if your belongings weigh more than expected, your costs will not increase as long as you don’t add any furniture or boxes that weren’t included in the initial estimate. However, if the move weighs less than expected, your costs will still stay the same.
What is a non-binding moving estimate?
Like binding estimates, a non-binding estimate is typically based on the weight of your move. The big difference between the two is that a non-binding quote doesn’t guarantee your final costs. Instead, after your belongings are loaded on the moving truck, the truck will be weighed and your price will be adjusted accordingly to account for any discrepancy between the initial quote and final weigh-in.
Binding vs. non-binding estimates: Key differences
Let’s break down some of the key differences between binding and non-binding estimates. These details are often the main deciding factors when choosing which estimate is right for your specific move.
Predictability vs. flexibility
Knowing exactly what you’ll pay with a binding estimate from a flat-fee mover could offer peace of mind and makes budgeting much easier, since you won’t have to worry about last-minute price changes.
But binding estimates aren’t very flexible — any changes to your move size or location will result in additional fees or a new estimate.
One way around this is to get a binding “not-to-exceed” estimate. With this type of estimate, long-distance or interstate movers will essentially put a cap on your costs. This means that even if some key details change, you won’t be charged more. But you could be charged less if, for instance, you declutter before your move and have fewer items than anticipated come moving day.
Knowing your final bill is subject to change with a non-binding estimate could free you up to make some last-minute additions or changes without stressing over it too much.
Higher upfront costs vs. surprise fees
A non-binding estimate is a bit of a gamble — it could be a boon… or it could seriously hurt your wallet. A lot of that depends on the accuracy of your quote.
If your mover provided a precise estimate, your final cost shouldn’t change too much. And if your belongings weigh less than expected, your costs could actually go down! On the other hand, if your belongings weigh more than the estimate, your costs could increase significantly.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with a reputable long-distance mover that has a reputation for transparent pricing to get a non-binding estimate.
With binding estimates, you eliminate the risk of unexpected price increases and potentially lower your final price, but the initial estimate is usually higher than with a non-binding quote (particularly if you opt for “not-to-exceed”).
Considering this, there may be situations where you would end up paying less with a non-binding estimate, like if you have a small move that you can easily estimate the size of.
How to get accurate moving estimates
A detailed quote is crucial to staying on budget, but there’s more to that than just selecting a reputable moving company.
Be detailed and thorough
This requires organizing the belongings you expect to take with you and making a list of your items. That way, when you speak with a moving coordinator, you’re able to give them specific inventory details. Make sure you let them know upfront whether you’ll need additional services like packing. Omitting or overlooking key information could end up costing you.
With a non-binding estimate, it’s generally better to err on the side of overestimating. That way, you may be pleasantly surprised with a lower final bill, while also adding some protection against added fees if your approximation doesn’t match actual weight.
That’s what Joshua wished he had done when he moved with Safeway. He miscalculated the cubic footage of his belongings and added more items on moving day, resulting in an increase of $800 he didn’t find out about until the last minute.
Looking back on his mistakes, Joshua’s advice is to create a detailed inventory to determine a best guess at weight and volume… then add a little more to those numbers when getting estimates, just in case.
Request in-home or virtual surveys
Your best bet at an accurate estimate is with an in-home or virtual survey. With these surveys, a professional from the moving company will conduct a walkthrough of your home (either in-person or via video call). This allows them to fully assess how much stuff you need to move as they prepare their estimate.
When Kyle used North American Van Lines for his move from Washington, D.C., to North Carolina, the company set up an appointment for an in-person estimate. As a result of that leg work at the start of the moving process, his final costs matched the initial estimate.
Ask about extra fees and conditions
One of the biggest mistakes we see people make is not reading the fine print before accepting a moving estimate, then being critical of a mover for charging “surprise” fees.
This happened to Josh when Mayzlin Relocation charged him a $150 long-carry fee because his oversized couch wouldn’t fit in the apartment building’s elevator. He was also billed for furniture assembly and disassembly.
Josh felt blindsided, but these charges were laid out in the paperwork. Long-carry fees are pretty standard in the moving industry, and most companies also have built-in charges for multiple flights of stairs.
We know contracts don’t make for good reading, but doing so prepares you for possible increases and helps you avoid situations that could lead to add-on fees. You can also ask movers about their terms and conditions when you call for a quote.
Compare estimates from multiple movers
Our rule of thumb here is to get estimates from at least three similar moving companies. “Similar” is the key here. If you are considering a full-service move, getting one quote from a van line, one from a moving container company, and a third for a moving truck rental won’t really help you. You want to have an apples-to-apples comparison to see what each company provides for the money and weed out those that charge extra for services that come standard with other movers.
Multiple quotes also enable you to negotiate with movers on a lower quote. Lots of moving companies, including BLVD Moving and American Van Lines are willing to price match top competitors.
Choosing the right estimate for your move
Which type of estimate is better for you largely depends on the unique circumstances surrounding your move.
Here are some scenarios to consider for each option:
You may want a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate if:
- You’re sure you won’t be adding any items at the last minute
- You want to know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay
- You already know which services you will need
A non-binding estimate may be a good fit if:
- There’s a chance your move size could increase between the original estimate and moving day
- You have a small move that you have accurately measured in terms of weight and volume
- You aren’t able to coordinate an in-person or virtual estimate
- You’re fully aware your moving costs could increase or decrease
The best movers for accurate pricing
We’ve researched and analyzed thousands of movers across the country and these are our picks for transparent and affordable costs and multiple pricing options, including “not-to-exceed” quotes and price-match policies:
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FAQ
Are binding estimates always more expensive?
Binding estimates aren’t always more expensive. However, the initial estimate is usually higher than it would be with a non-binding estimate in order to protect the company’s bottom line if they underestimate the size of your move.
Can non-binding estimates turn into binding agreements?
A non-binding estimate can turn into a binding agreement if you and the mover agree to make this change. However, this scenario is uncommon and would require the creation of a new written contract.
What happens if my move costs less than the binding estimate?
If your move costs less than the binding estimate, your costs will remain the same. With a standard binding estimate, you pay the initially quoted amount no matter what, unless you make last-minute changes to your move.
However, if you get a binding “not-to-exceed” estimate, your costs could go down if the move is smaller than initially estimated.
Should I always get multiple moving quotes?
Yes, you should always get multiple moving quotes. This allows you to confirm whether a quote seems reasonable for your move details, compare pricing and services, and potentially take advantage of price-matching offers.
Our rating methodology
At moveBuddha, we understand that all moving companies aren’t created equal. We undertake a rigorous review process to rate and review moving companies to ensure we provide accurate recommendations.
Here’s a breakdown of the methodology we use to rate movers:
- Customer satisfaction: In addition to looking at reviews with the BBB, Google, and other third-party sites, we rely heavily on interviews with Better Moves Project participants to understand the pros and cons of each mover.
- Standard services: We look at what services are included as part of a company’s standard offerings, and which ones you can only get for an additional fee.
- Reputation: We evaluate a company’s industry ratings, including aspects like carrying sufficient insurance coverage and compliance with applicable regulations.
- Add-on services: We look at any add-on services that can simplify a move, such as custom crating or storage options — services that aren’t offered by all moving companies.
- Availability: The areas a company serves — as well as whether they offer local, long-distance, or international services — is another important consideration. Widespread availability is most useful.
- Type of mover: A moving company’s capability (such as full-service vs. DIY) will directly impact its service offerings.
- Payment: Ease of making a payment (including submitting a deposit) with multiple options (credit card, check, cash, etc.) can also make moving easier.
- Scheduling: How easy is it to book a move? What kind of lead time is needed? Readily available booking services and streamlined scheduling will help get your move underway.
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