Whether you’re moving long-distance or somewhere near your neighborhood, moving estimate is something you should research well. Before you consider hiring professional movers, you need to know the difference between binding and non-binding moving estimate. Not only because of moving your stuff, but to avoid moving scams while relocating. Read our article and find out the difference between moving estimates and choose the right for you. If you’re looking for a reliable moving company to relocate your things, choose Clinton movers, and avoid moving scams and extra costs.
Definition of binding and non-binding moving estimate
Before we start talking about the difference between binding and non-binding moving estimate, we’ll make a short definition of these two. Briefly, a non-binding moving estimate is what your movers believe the cost of your relocation without guaranteeing a price. Your relocation costs will be determined on the actual services provided, not on what the estimate says. On the other hand, a binding moving estimate means that whatever the estimate shows, you pay. It means that the price quoted in the estimate is the amount you pay, even if your shipment weighs more than the estimated amount. Relocating soon? Choose Cross Country movers and pick the best moving estimate for you.
Estimate is based on weight and context
And now, the difference between binding and non-binding moving estimate. A non-binding moving estimate is based on how much your movers think your things weigh. Movers need to visit your home and make an inventory of everything you’re going to relocate, to get an accurate estimate. They may consider other factors such as stairs, parking, heavy and large items. They’ll see if there are any other issues that might affect the move which leads to extra costs. This is why you need to ask all questions that come to your mind. And if you’re moving soon, before you choose a moving estimate, learn how to sell your NYC home the fastest way.
What is a non-binding estimate?
The most common type of estimates when moving long-distance or across state is a non-binding estimate. If you choose this, your estimate will be based on the weight of your things and with services provided by movers. It’s about what movers believe the cost of your move is without guaranteeing a price. The important thing is, that non-binding estimate is not a contract.This means the price of the move can change on the moving day. The actual cost will be calculated based on your mover’s tariff, while federal law requires your mover to collect the charges based on tariffs. Before you choose a moving estimate, learn the best ways to find a reliable moving company.
Risks with non-binding estimates
Fraudulent movers can scam you with a non-binding estimate easily. The most common way to scam you is when you’re moving across state lines. They can hold your household hostage unless you pay the new estimate price! Yes, it happens that some movers give a new estimate that is much higher than the previous one. This is why you need to have everything in writing and hire only licensed moving company.
What is a binding estimate?
Binding estimate isn’t as common as a non-binding estimate. A binding estimate represents a written agreement made in advance with your movers. It guarantees the total cost of the move based upon weight and services shown on the estimate. The difference between binding and non-binding estimate is that a binding estimate allows you to only pay the estimated amount upon delivery. You cannot pay more or less. The benefit of choosing a binding estimate is that the shipping price is guaranteed, so you know exactly what your bill will be after the move.
Description of shipment
As we mentioned above, movers need to visit your house and make an inventory of all thing you’re moving. Then, they will make a description of shipment. The binding moving estimate must accurately describe the shipment and services the company will make. That can be long carry charges, shuttle service, flight charges or renting a storage unit. The company must bill you separately for these charges. Since you have the shipment description in writing, movers can’t charge you more than the amount of the binding estimate.
accurately describe the shipment and all the services the company will provide, if you take a binding moving estimate.
Signing the contract
Before signing a contract, you must choose the moving estimate. If you choose a binding estimate, the moving company must clearly state that the charges are only for the services outlined in the estimate. They must confirm that in writing. They can also negotiate a revised binding estimate with a list of additional household goods stating you both consider the original binding estimate as a non-binding estimate. We recommend you to avoid this because it can lead to extra costs.
How to avoid moving scams?
When choosing a moving estimate, you need to know how to avoid moving scams. First, get at least 3 quotes from different movers and compare moving estimates. Research online reviews from other users and see the reputation of the company. If they seem unprofessional but offer low prices, don’t hire them. Make sure to fully understand the moving estimate requirements and ask questions.
Is there a better option than binding and non-binding moving estimates?
Wonder if you should choose binding or non-binding moving estimate?If you can’t decide, this may be the best option of binding and non-binding moving estimate. Not-to-exceed estimate means that if the actual weight of your shipment is more than the written estimate, you’re going to pay the quoted amount. If the weight of the shipment is less than the written estimate, you’ll pay less! So, if you require a binding not-to-exceed estimate, you’re not going to pay a higher price. Ask your movers for this estimate.
