When its time for you to start looking for moving companies and getting moving quotes, it will be very important for you to know the different types of moving estimates a mover can give. Knowing the difference between these three types of moving estimates will not only help you negotiate better but will also keep you protected from sudden price hikes or movers demanding a higher price than the initial quote.
Non-binding moving estimates
The first among the types of moving estimate is called a non-binding estimate. After evaluating your goods, the mover will give you an estimated cost of the move. Now, even though the movers try to give the best possible estimate, the actual cost of the move can differ once the shipment is loaded and your items are weighed on the moving day. Occasionally the actual weight of your items will be lower, thus reducing your cost, but be prepared for the chance that the cost will rise from the initial estimate. This is why you should also be vary of moving quotes that seem too low than the competition, as some companies, in order to book jobs might give a lower intial estimate and later change the price.
Binding moving estimates
Binding estimates will take out the uncertainty from the moving quote you receive. With such kind of estimate you will know exactly what you will be paying. With this type of estimate, the mover will evaluate your goods and give you a quote for your move, which will be concrete and will not change depending upon the actual weight of the shipment. Binding estimates are good because the cost of your move will not change if the actual weight of your items is higher than what the mover estimated. However, on the flip side, if the weight is lower, you will still have to pay the agreed-upon price.
Binding Not-To-Exceed moving estimates
This kind of estimate is the best option for you. If your moving company can provide such an estimate, be sure to get it. With a binding not-to-exceed estimate, the cost of your move will never go above the estimated price. However, in the situation where your items weigh less than the intial estimate, your cost will be lowered. This is a win-win situation for you as you are protected from the cost going higher, but can still get the lower price if the items weigh less.
We hope that this article will help you in selecting which estimate will be the best for you. Make sure you ask your mover about the different kinds of estimates they offer.
