Sacramento Movers Explain Binding Versus Non-Binding Estimates

When you begin to research moving companies and request moving quotes, you may hear the words “binding estimate” and “non-binding estimate” and wonder what exactly those terms mean. This is actually a rather important distinction to be aware of when planning a move with a  professional moving company. Here’s a little comparison of the two types of estimates that are given.

Binding Estimate

Most moving companies will conduct an onsite estimate at a customer’s home before scheduling a move with a customer. An onsite estimate is simply when a move consultant walks through your home to take a visual inspection of the items that are being moved to get an accurate idea of the size of truck needed as well as what crew size to send out and give you a range for how long the move should take. The move consultant considers estimated weight of your items and the distance from point A to point B when coming up with the estimate for the move.

Only after conducting an onsite estimate, should a mover provide you with a binding estimate. This estimate will be in writing. If you choose to go with that moving company, then you will be obligated to pay the amount specified in the binding estimate. The advantage of the binding estimate is that you know the upper limit of what you will be required to pay and the mover is also bound to charge you no more than that amount.

Exceptions to binding estimates occur when you add more items to the amount being moved, or when you request more services (additional packing or moving up or down stairs when that was not originally part of the estimate). In cases such as these, the moving company has the right to revise the binding estimate and raise the bill. Be sure to communicate such changes with your mover before the move begins so that they can modify your estimate before you are obligated to pay for their services.

Non-Binding Estimates

Non-binding estimates do not obligate movers to charge you the quoted price. There may be cases in which you must pay more than the non-binding estimate. This estimate is an approximate moving cost based on the mover’s survey of the items being moved. The final cost is not determined until the shipment has been weighed (for long distance movers) or the move is complete (for local moves billed on an hourly rate). One easy clue that you are getting a non-binding estimate from your mover is if the estimate is provided over the phone without a visual inspection of your home having been completed.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Sacramento employs a staff of over 40 Full-Time Movers and Drivers, with a fleet of 10 trucks. We have performed home and business moving services in and around the Greater Sacramento area for almost 10 years. Our award winning services include full service moving and packing services and we also sells boxes and packing supplies.

With comments or questions contact Carolyn Durkee, Marketing Coordinator at the Sacramento office of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK at 916-852-7411 or contact us here.