Understanding The Different Kinds of Moving Estimates

At Quick Professional Movers, we emphasize the importance of learning about the intricacies of the moving industry, such as getting moving estimates. However, many times potential movers don't get an estimate and this moving mistake will cost you. Take it from some recent complaints: “The price I received over the phone changed,” “I was quoted one price online and it doubled on moving day,” and perhaps the worst, “I did not receive a moving estimate.” Believe us, you don't want these unfortunate situations to happen to you, and better yet, they don't have to, especially with moving estimates, where a mover comes to your home, assesses your belongings, and sets a price -- in writing . This written price can be binding, binding, non-exceeding and non-binding - let's learn what each of these terms means to ensure a smooth and price-guaranteed move.

Non-Binding Estimate:

As the name suggests, this estimate is not bound by contract, it is a rough estimate of the price of your move. So on moving day, what the movers estimated could be less than that amount or more - there's no way to really know the cost until moving day. Not exactly the best choice; however, some companies use rough estimates like this one. Since it provides a rough estimate, you should expect additional costs.

Binding Estimates:

While the estimate in a non-binding contract is uncertain, receiving a binding contract will give you a more accurate estimate of what you will pay. With this estimate, the cost of your move will not increase even if (on moving day) the movers determine that the actual weight is greater than the estimate. However, if the weight of your shipment is under estimated, you must still pay the agreed price. While it's a bit up in the air about what the actual costs might be, it gives you a fairly accurate figure of how much your move will cost - making it easier to plan your move and budget.

Binding Not-To-Exceed:

Best estimate no-exceed binding estimates are popular with long-distance moves, but not so much with local movers because these moves are more time-sensitive. With this estimate, the movers are bound by the price you receive, and if the items are lower than estimated, the cost will be reduced.

With any estimate you receive, be sure to tell the moving company every single item you need to move—no secrets—which can affect your total cost on moving day.

While anything can happen and prices can go up, it's important to have a written estimate before moving with as accurate an amount as possible. We promise this will help you stay organized during this rather hectic process.