Binding Estimate
A binding estimate is a written quote from a moving company that locks in the price for the move, regardless of how long the move takes or how much it weighs.
With a binding estimate, the mover agrees to perform the move for the quoted price even if the actual labor hours or shipment weight exceeds the original estimate. Conversely, if the move takes less time or weighs less than estimated, the customer still pays the full binding amount — there is no refund for under-runs. Binding estimates require an accurate pre-move inventory and are most common for long-distance moves where shipment weight is the primary cost driver.
The alternative — a non-binding estimate — gives the customer a price range subject to final hours or weight measurement on move day. Binding estimates trade flexibility for price certainty.
Boston Best Rate Movers offers transparent hourly billing as the default pricing model, with binding estimates available for long-distance moves where the customer prefers price certainty.
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Moving Cost CalculatorRelated Terms
Non-Binding Estimate
A non-binding estimate is a written quote that represents the mover's best projection of the cost, but the final price is determined by actual hours worked (for local moves) or actual shipment weight (for long-distance moves).
Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate
A binding not-to-exceed estimate caps the move at the quoted price — the customer never pays more, but pays less if the actual hours or weight come in under the estimate.
Accessorial Charges
Accessorial charges are extra fees added to a moving bill beyond the base rate for services like long carries, stair carries, shuttle service, crating, appliance servicing, and storage-in-transit.
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