Why this matters more on interstate moves
Local moves are usually billed by the hour, so estimate type rarely changes the math much. Interstate moves are billed by weight or cubic footage plus distance — and that is where surprise charges happen. Federal rules give carriers the right to collect at delivery only what's owed under the estimate type printed on your contract.
Non-binding estimate
The mover gives a ballpark based on a phone or video survey. The truck weighs at a certified scale before and after loading; final cost is based on actual weight. On delivery day, federal rules cap the upfront required payment at 110% of the estimate, but the carrier can bill the rest within 30 days.
Useful for budgeting and shopping. Treat the number as an opening offer, not a commitment.
Binding estimate
The mover commits to a fixed price based on the inventory list at survey time. If your shipment weighs more than estimated, you still pay the binding amount. If it weighs less, you also still pay the binding amount.
Smart choice when your inventory is finalized and you don't expect to add anything between survey and pickup.
Binding not-to-exceed (the one to ask for)
The estimate becomes a ceiling. Weighs less than estimated? You pay less. Weighs more? You still pay no more than the binding amount.
Most major van lines — United, Allied, North American, Mayflower — offer this on request. Many independents do too. It's almost never the default. Ask explicitly and confirm the language on the contract.
| Type | Final price behavior | Risk level | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-binding | Can rise or fall with actual weight; capped at 110% upfront | Medium | Early shopping, flexible budgets |
| Binding | Locked at survey; no change either way | Low — but no upside | Finalized inventory, no expected adds |
| Binding not-to-exceed | Ceiling at survey; pay less if shipment weighs less | Lowest | Most household interstate moves |
Why prices change on non-binding moves
- Inventory grew between survey and pickup (extra boxes, the garage, a guest room added)
- The estimator under-counted boxes or guessed light on furniture weight
- Accessorial charges (long carry, stairs, shuttle) weren't included in the original estimate
- Packing services were added at the door
- Storage-in-transit was triggered by a delayed delivery address
What should be on every estimate before you sign
- Estimate type printed on the document (binding, binding NTE, or non-binding)
- Inventory list signed by both parties
- Pickup window and delivery window dates
- Valuation coverage selection (released $0.60/lb vs full-value protection)
- Total estimated charges and itemized accessorials
- Deposit terms and accepted payment methods
- Mover's USDOT and MC numbers and signature line
Red flags before signing
- One-line price with no inventory or weight basis
- Verbal promise that 'the price won't change' but contract says non-binding
- Required signature on a blank Order for Service (it commits you to whatever they fill in)
- Deposit demanded before you've reviewed the estimate type