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).
Non-binding estimates protect the customer if the move turns out to be smaller or faster than expected — they only pay for what actually happens. They can also expose customers to a higher-than-quoted final bill if the move takes longer than projected or weighs more than estimated. Federal regulations cap the upcharge on a non-binding interstate estimate at 110% of the original quote at delivery (customers can refuse to pay more than that until the shipment is delivered).
Boston Best Rate Movers' standard local-move pricing is effectively a non-binding hourly estimate: the customer pays $149/hr (or $179, $219 for larger crews) for the actual hours worked, billed in 15-minute increments after the 3-hour minimum.
Related Terms
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.
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.
Hourly Rate (Moving)
An hourly moving rate charges the customer for the actual labor time the crew works on move day, typically with a minimum number of hours required.
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