How to Get a
Moving Estimate
The cost
of an interstate move is usually based on the weight of
your belongings and on the distance they are shipped,
plus the amount of packing and other services that you
require.
To help
you anticipate the cost of your move, movers will give
you an estimate of the price. Help the movers calculate
the cost of your move by showing them every single item
to be moved. Don't forget to go into the attic,
basement, garage, closets and under beds. Reach a clear
understanding about the amount of packing and other
services needed. Anything omitted from the estimate but
later included in the shipment will add to the cost.
Most
movers offer two types of estimates - non-binding and
binding.
Non-binding estimates are not bids or
contracts. Instead, a non-binding estimate is an
approximation of the cost based on the mover's survey of
the items to be moved, with the final cost determined
after the shipment is weighed. Since a non-binding
estimate is based on the actual weight of your shipment
(rather than the estimated weight), the price will
usually be lower than a binding estimate. However, when
you receive a non-binding estimate there is no guarantee
that the final cost will not be more than the
estimate.
Under a non-binding estimate, the mover
cannot require you to pay more than the amount of the
original estimate, plus 10 percent, (or 110% of the
original estimate amount) at the time of delivery. You
are then obligated to pay any remaining charges, over
this 110% amount, within 30 days. However, if you
requested the mover to provide more services than those
included in the original estimate, the mover may demand
full payment for these added services at the time of
delivery, in addition to 110% of the original estimate.
Many
movers also provide binding estimates. A binding estimate means that you are
obligated to pay the price set forth in the binding
estimate even if the shipment weighs more than or less
than the estimated amount.
All binding estimates
cover only the goods and services listed on the
estimate. If you add items or request additional
services, the mover may void the original estimate or
revise it, or the mover may elect to demand full payment
for these added services at the time of delivery. In
addition, all movers reserve the right to charge for
services necessary to accomplish delivery, even if those
services are not requested by the shipper. For example,
additional charges will apply if you are not prepared to
accept delivery and the shipment is placed in storage,
or if a smaller (shuttle) truck must be used to
accomplish delivery because your new home is located on
a narrow street.
Another type of estimate used by
many movers is the Not-To-Exceed Estimate. This type of
estimate is called various things by various movers,
such as Guaranteed Price or Price Protection, but the
end result is the same --- an estimate based on a
binding estimateor on
actual cost,whichever is lower. Like a binding
estimate, a not-to-exceed estimate must be provided to
you in writing and is binding on the
carrier.
Not-to-Exceed estimates differ though in
that the binding estimate amount becomes the maximum
amount that you will be obligated to pay for the
services outlined on the estimate. This maximum amount
alternates with the tariff charges applicable based on
the actual weight of the shipment, with the customer
paying the lesser of the two amounts. When you accept a
not-to-exceed estimate, the move is performed at actual
weight based on the tariff rate levels, with the binding
estimate representing the maximum charge that you will
have to pay.
A number of factors will determine the cost of your
move. When you move (the summer season and the first and
last few days of each month are the busiest times for
movers), where you move (moves in traffic lanes between
metropolitan areas may be less than moves to remote
locations), and how much you move (charges are based on
weight and distance) all impact your final cost.
And remember, it's not just the price;
it's the total value of a professional move.
When you are discussing your
estimate with your mover, be sure to ask about the
arrangements for paying for the move. It is customary
for movers to require that charges be paid in cash, by
certified check, or by money order. Most movers will not
accept personal checks. Some movers will accept payment
by credit card. However, do not assume that because you
have a nationally recognized charge or credit card that
it will be accepted for payment.Ask your mover before your move.
