A non-binding estimate is the most common type of moving estimate — and the one that causes the most disputes. Here's what it actually means and why you should insist on a binding estimate instead.
What Non-Binding Actually Means
A non-binding estimate is the mover's best guess at what your move will cost. It is not a price commitment. Under FMCSA regulations, a mover can charge up to 110% of a non-binding estimate before they're required to release your goods at delivery. In practice, this means a $2,500 non-binding estimate can legally become a $2,750 bill at the door.
The 110% rule is the legal minimum protection. Unscrupulous movers have been known to go beyond it and claim the excess is for "additional services" requested during the move — a category that's vague enough to be abused.
Why Non-Binding Estimates Are Everywhere
Non-binding estimates are easier for movers to produce because they don't require a precise inventory. They can be given over the phone in five minutes based on your bedroom count. This benefits the mover, not you — a precise inventory takes longer to build but produces a number that can actually be binding.
What Binding Means Instead
A binding estimate is a contractual price commitment. If you move 650 cu ft at a binding price of $2,910, the bill at delivery is $2,910. Not $3,200 because the truck weighed more. Not $3,400 because of a fuel adjustment. $2,910.
Binding-Not-to-Exceed
A third type — binding-not-to-exceed — is a binding estimate with an upside benefit: if your actual shipment costs less than estimated, you pay the lower amount. This is theoretically the best option, though it's rare and often comes with a higher base estimate to compensate for the downside protection the mover is giving you.