Moving Estimates

Posted by David Piotrowski

Moving companies must provide shippers with an estimate in writing prior to issuing an order for service. (An order for service will be discussed at length in a later post.) Moving companies may, if their tariff allows, provide the shipper with either a binding estimate or a non-binding estimate. (Tariffs will be discussed at length in a later post.)

A binding estimate is an agreement made in advance between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the charges for the moving services. A binding estimate guarantees the total cost of the move based upon the quantities and services shown on the binding estimate. For example, if a carrier provides a shipper with a binding estimate for $1,000 to ship 100 cubic feet from Arizona to Utah, then the carrier cannot collect from the shipper anything over $1,000 to ship that 100 cubic feet from Arizona to Utah.

A non-binding estimate can be based on either weight or volume (cubic feet) and is a carrier’s reasonable estimate on what the cost will be based upon the estimated weight or volume and any extra services requested. A non-binding estimate is not binding on the carrier and a shipper may end up paying more than the amount in the non-binding estimate. The final charges will be based on the actual weight or volume of the shipment. Actual weight is usually determined by a weight ticket when the carrier drives through a weight station. The carrier will weigh the truck prior to loading the goods and then again after the goods are loaded. The carrier will subtract the two (2) numbers to arrive at the actual weight of the shipment.

All moving estimates, whether binding or non-binding, must specify the form of payment that will be accepted at delivery and must list charges for accessorial services such as elevators or long carries. If no accessorial services are listed, then the goods must be delivered but the carrier cannot demand payment for such services until thirty (30) days after delivery.

All moving estimates must be signed and dated by both the carrier and the shipper and a copy should be given to each.

Moving estimates may be amended upon the mutual consent of both the carrier and the shipper prior to loading the shipment.

3 Responses to “Moving Estimates”

1. Define: Order for Service Says:
   February 8th, 2008 at 8:41 pm

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2. Movers Charging By Cubic Feet Says:
   May 3rd, 2008 at 10:18 am

   […] Binding and Non-Binding Estimates […]

3. Protect Your Move Says:
   May 10th, 2008 at 6:55 pm

   […] Binding and Non-Binding Estimates […]

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