Moving Estimates
Understanding your moving contract is easier than you think, and definitely worth doing. The first thing you should really know about moving estimates is that there are three different kinds of estimates: binding, non-binding, and not-to-exceed. The one thing that stays common about moving estimates is that they both depend on the size of your house, the amount of stuff you have, and any special packing materials you might need. The rates also vary by what is included in each estimate. Some estimates may include packing services as well as packing supplies. The more informed you are and aware you are, the more inexpensive your move will be.
A binding estimate is exactly how it sounds – it’s a flat rate that you know up-front. When the moving company comes to your house and assesses all of your items, they’ll usually give you a number. Whatever that number is, is exactly what you will pay, no matter how long your move takes or how many movers show up to work on your job. Not-to-exceed moving estimates closely align with binding moving estimates because they’ll base the final price of your move on the binding estimate, or the actual cost of your move. Whichever price is lower, you will pay.
A non-binding estimate is essentially a guess by the moving company for how long your move is going to take, or how much it is going to weigh. Your move will be more expensive if it’s a long distance or cross country move. Most moving companies will offer this type of moving estimate when you inquire about moving services. With a non-binding estimate, it’s important to note that there is a limit to how much more a moving company can charge you on top of the original non-binding estimate. This is important information to take note of because you don’t want a company to over charge you and rip you off.
When you are interviewing and bringing in moving companies, it is important to be as thorough as possible. If you show the estimator one type of moving job, and on moving day completely change it up, the estimate can be voided, and the movers have the right to charge you for the time that the move actually takes. It’s also very important to note that affecting the flow of the move, which might be changing pick-up or drop-off locations, can result in extra charges.
If you’re moving and you can’t decide which moving company offers you the best moving estimate, let Match Up Movers help you. As a moving concierge service, we find you the best movers for your move based on what you tell us. We help you avoid spending time on monotonous details to allow you to spend time doing other important things for your move!