The Three Types of Moving Estimates
Before signing a moving contract, you need to know which estimate type you’re agreeing to. Movers are required by law to specify this on your estimate document.
Non-Binding Estimate
A non-binding estimate is the most common quote type — and the most dangerous for consumers.
What it is: A mover looks at your inventory and gives you a price estimate based on anticipated weight and services. This is not a contract price — it’s a prediction.
The risk: Your final bill is based on your shipment’s actual weighed weight, not the estimate. If the mover underestimated your weight (intentionally or not), you pay more. There is no cap on how much more.
Common scenario: You get a quote for $4,200. On moving day, the mover says your shipment weighed 1,800 lbs more than estimated. The bill becomes $5,800. You pay it or your goods stay on the truck.
Binding Estimate
A binding estimate is a fixed-price contract.
What it is: The mover commits to a specific price based on the inventory and services listed. Regardless of actual weight, you pay that price — no more, no less.
The protection: You know your exact moving cost before the truck is loaded. If the mover was wrong about weight, that’s their problem, not yours.
The risk (minor): If your actual shipment weighs significantly less than estimated, you still pay the binding price. You don’t get a refund for lower weight. (This is rare — most people underestimate how much they own, not overestimate.)
Important: A binding estimate only covers the items and services listed. If you add a room full of furniture on moving day that wasn’t on the inventory, the mover can charge extra for the addition.
Not-to-Exceed (Binding Not-to-Exceed)
This is the most consumer-friendly estimate type, and the one we recommend for all interstate moves.
What it is: The mover sets a price based on your inventory. If actual weight exceeds the estimate, you pay the original estimate price. If actual weight is less than estimated, you pay the lower actual cost.
The protection: You get a price ceiling (binding) with the potential for savings (if you’re under weight). This is the best of both worlds.
Why not all movers offer it: Not-to-exceed estimates create incentive for movers to overestimate weight (since they cap at the estimate regardless of actual weight). Movers who offer them tend to be more established and consumer-oriented companies.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Non-Binding | Binding | Not-to-Exceed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price locked? | No | Yes | Capped at estimate |
| Can cost more than estimate? | Yes (unlimited) | No | No |
| Can cost less than estimate? | Yes | No | Yes |
| Best for consumer? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅✅ Best |
| Required in writing? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Common for interstate? | Yes (most common) | Less common | Less common |
| Common for local? | Yes | Less common | Rare |
How Movers Conduct an In-Home Estimate
For an estimate to be meaningful — binding or not — the mover needs to actually see what you’re moving. Here’s what a proper estimate looks like:
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In-home or video survey — A sales representative walks through every room and inventories your items. They note specialty items (pianos, large safes, artwork), access issues (stairs, elevators, distance to truck), and required services.
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Written itemized quote — The estimate lists every item category and the associated weight and cost. It specifies the estimate type (binding/non-binding/NTE) and all included services.
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Accessorial fee disclosure — All potential add-on charges (packing, long carry, elevator, shuttle) are listed with their rates. If a charge isn’t on the estimate, question it before signing.
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Signature on estimate type — Both parties sign. The estimate type must be specified — not implied.
Red flag: Any mover who gives you a quote over the phone without conducting an inventory is almost certainly giving you a non-binding estimate based on a guess. These routinely end in moving day surprises.
What the FMCSA Requires on Estimates
Federal moving regulations (for interstate moves) require that movers:
- Provide written estimates before the move
- Specify whether the estimate is binding or non-binding
- Not require a deposit greater than a reasonable amount
- Deliver goods upon payment of the binding estimate price or 110% of a non-binding estimate at delivery
For Florida intrastate moves, the FDACS enforces similar consumer protections under Florida Statute 507.
How to Protect Yourself: A Checklist
Before signing any moving estimate:
- Confirm the estimate type in writing (binding / non-binding / NTE)
- Get all add-on fees itemized and in writing
- Verify the mover’s USDOT or FDACS license number
- Confirm the estimate covers exactly what you want moved (inventory list attached)
- Ask: “If actual weight is higher than estimated, what is my maximum liability?”
- Never sign a blank document or one with blank fields
- Keep a copy of the signed estimate — reference it if disputes arise at delivery