What Is a Non-Binding Estimate?
A non-binding estimate is a written approximation of the expected moving charges. The actual amount is calculated under the moving company's applicable rates, the shipment's actual characteristics, and the services performed. It can increase or decrease relative to the original estimate. For interstate household goods, the governing provisions include 49 CFR § 375.405.
For example, a move estimated at $3,000 may cost more if the shipment weighs more than expected or if qualifying extra services are provided. A lighter shipment may reduce applicable weight-based charges. The carrier cannot simply ignore federal estimate and delivery payment restrictions, however. Compare with a binding estimate, where the listed shipment and services generally have an agreed price.
How Does a Non-Binding Estimate Work?
Survey and itemize
The company reviews your belongings, pickup and destination access, and the services you request. An appropriate physical or virtual survey helps make the quote reasonably accurate. If a company offers only a casual verbal amount, request the federally required written documentation for an interstate household goods move.
Provide a written estimate
The document should be dated, signed, and clearly marked non-binding. It should describe the shipment and anticipated services, and explain that final charges depend on the carrier's applicable tariff. Under federal rules, the mover must prepare a non-binding estimate free of charge.
Weigh and transport
For a weight-rated move, certified weighing establishes the actual net weight. The loaded gross weight minus the properly measured tare weight produces net shipment weight. A weight ticket documents the required measurements. Qualifying shippers have reweigh and observation rights under federal rules.
Calculate the final charges
The mover determines the lawful charges using actual shipment weight and services under its moving tariff. The bill of lading is the transportation contract, while the non-binding estimate describes expected charges. See bill of lading in moving.
What Is the 110% Rule?
For a federally regulated interstate shipment under a non-binding estimate, the mover generally cannot demand more than 110% of the original estimate at delivery for the services originally estimated. This limits the initial delivery collection, not the total lawful bill. Under applicable federal rules, a remaining balance can be billed after delivery. Qualifying services requested after the bill of lading and impracticable operations follow separate payment provisions.
Worked example
| Amount | Hypothetical figure |
|---|---|
| Original non-binding estimate | $4,000 |
| 110% of the estimate | $4,400 |
| Actual lawful final charges | $4,700 |
| Remaining balance after delivery payment of $4,400 | $300 |
In the simplified example, the mover generally must release the shipment for $4,400 toward the originally estimated charges, even though $4,700 is lawfully owed. The remaining $300 is billed later in accordance with the regulations. This example assumes no separately collectible extra services or impracticable operations and is not a real quote.
What if the actual cost is lower?
If lawful charges calculate to $3,700, that is the relevant amount, subject to applicable minima and other tariff terms. The mover does not automatically add 10% because the 110% rule exists. It is a protection, not a fuel surcharge or required markup.
What Can Increase a Non-Binding Quote?
An underestimated inventory, extra furniture, a greater verified weight, more packing, specialty handling, different access conditions, or authorized storage can change lawful charges. Accessorial fees and fuel surcharges may contribute when the effective tariff and agreement permit them. These charges are not necessarily immediately collectible just because they appear on the final freight bill.
If the crew discovers added items before loading, the mover may reaffirm the original estimate or prepare a compliant revised written estimate. Once loading is complete, the original estimate generally cannot simply be replaced with a higher one. Timing and notice matter.
Binding vs. Non-Binding: A Comparison
| Feature | Binding | Non-binding |
|---|---|---|
| Price for listed services | Agreed | Approximate |
| Final weight difference | Generally doesn't change agreed charge | May affect final charge |
| If actual bill is lower | Agreed price generally still due | Lower actual lawful charge may apply |
| Delivery payment for estimated services | Generally 100% of binding amount | Generally no more than 110% of estimated amount |
| Price preparation | May carry fee | Must be free under federal interstate rules |
The agreement also matters when a company advertises not-to-exceed pricing. The label alone does not establish a third legal estimate class or displace the federal payment rules.
How Can You Verify Weight and Charges?
Ask for weight tickets and an explanation of how gross, tare, and net weights were measured. For eligible shipments, request a reweigh before unloading if the reported weight appears wrong. Compare the final freight bill with the tariff, estimate, inventory, and services performed. If the amount due at delivery seems improper, request a written calculation and retain correspondence.
A moving company refusing to release goods after tender of the lawfully collectible amount can present a serious consumer-protection issue. The FMCSA consumer resources explain complaints and related rights.
Are Non-Binding Estimates Used Locally?
Local and intrastate movers may offer approximate hourly or other estimates. Their rules depend on the relevant state and are not necessarily the same as 49 CFR Part 375. If you're remaining within a single state, review intrastate moving regulations before assuming the federal 110% rule applies.
Final Thoughts
A non-binding estimate is a starting point for planning, not a guaranteed final price. Know how the carrier's tariff determines charges and how the 110% rule affects delivery payments. Explore interstate movers or long-distance moving services when comparing written quotes.
