Non-binding Estimates
A non-binding estimate is supposed to give a general idea of what the consumer should expect to pay for the move. When furnishing a non-binding estimate, mover must clearly annotate that the estimate of charges is non-binding and explain that the final charges may exceed the approximate costs appearing in the estimate. Movers must issue a non-binding moving estimate free of charge. The estimate must clearly state the amount that your mover may collect upon delivery – 110% of the estimate. Mind that the 110% Rule does not apply for post contract services (services provided after your household items are loaded). Your moving company must determine the actual weight and provide a legal weight certificate by a certified scale. Furthermore, you have the right to be present when your shipment is weighed. Mover must bill you for the additional services after 30 days from delivery.
Binding Estimates
A binding moving estimate is a written agreement made upon reservation which provides the total cost of the move based on the weight/cubic feet of the consumer’s items and the services required. By law, movers may impose a charge for providing written binding estimate. Consumers shouldn’t be mislead by the notion “binding” and consider the binding estimate as a final price. If on moving day it appears that the consumer has more items to move, the carrier then is not obliged to honor the estimate and execute the job. BEFORE LOADING, mover may reaffirm the estimate, issue a revision written estimate, or convert the binding estimate into a non-binding. Both sides should agree on one of the following options. If a rescission of old estimate is performed, consumers should pay attention to the changes – weight, services and their rates.
Moving estimates should be provided in writing, showing weight/cubic feet of the consumer’s household items, all services requested, rates and method of payment accepted by the mover – cash, a certified check, a money order, cashier’s check, and a credit/debit card.
Remember, if additional or accessorial services are provided (regardless of whether you request them or the mover has to perform them to fulfill the job), mover will ask for full payment for all post contract services upon delivery, prior unloading. To comply with federal regulations, movers must allow the consumer at least one hour to determine whether he or she will request the additional services after the shipment is loaded. If the consumer agrees to pay for the additional services, mover must issue a written attachment to be an integral part of consumer’s bill of lading and signed by the consumer.
Mind that federal law governing movers allows and requires only these two moving estimates: binding and non-binding. There are not any provisions for other than those two types of moving estimates.
All statues governing the interstate transportation of household goods in regard to estimating charges can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations:
Title 49 – Transportation
Chapter III – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Department of Transportation
Subchapter B – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Part 375 – Transportation of Household Goods in Interstate Commerce; Consumer Protection Regulations
Subpart D – Estimating Charges
Quick Video Learning – Types of Moving Estimates
There are two types of moving estimates and quotes. Find out how to get an accurate moving estimate and to avoid possible blunders.–>
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I’ve moved so many times that I feel like have to deal with all the stress over and over. I wish find a good trust worthy mover company who knows how to move items and what to care for. I have a piano and moved by a large company but changed to local company once inter state move is done. The local mover didn’t know anything about piano and he put my piano vertical in the truck which caused disfunction and they had to repair. Be sure the mover know never to place piano vertical even if it’s electric piano.