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How to Read a Written Moving Estimate: Binding, Non-Binding and What to Check

Updated October 11, 2026

A written estimate is the first real promise a mover makes to you. It says what will be moved, which services are included and how the final bill will be figured. Many moving-day arguments start with an estimate nobody read closely. This guide walks through an estimate line by line, using the federal rules for moves between states. If your move stays inside one state, see the note near the end.

First, get it in writing

For an interstate move, the mover must give you a written estimate before you sign the bill of lading, and both you and the mover sign it. You get a dated copy (49 CFR 375.401). A price said over the phone or typed in a text is not the estimate. The federal booklet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” says it plainly: a verbal quote is not an official estimate, because it is not in writing.

The estimate should be based on a physical survey of your things. Under the federal rules the survey can be done in person or virtually, for example by video. You can give up the survey only in writing, signed before your things are loaded. If you do a video survey, open every closet and cabinet.

Binding or non-binding: find the words on the page

Every interstate estimate must say which kind it is. Look for the words on the page itself:

  • Binding estimate. It guarantees the total cost for the items and services listed. After loading, the mover may not collect more than the binding estimate, except for services you add after the bill of lading is issued and certain charges for unusual access the mover could not plan for (49 CFR 375.403). A mover may charge for writing a binding estimate.
  • Non-binding estimate. This is the mover’s best figure. The final charges are based on the actual weight of your shipment and the mover’s tariff. It must be free, in writing, and it must say on its face that it is not binding (49 CFR 375.405).

If you add items or services on moving day, the mover does not have to keep a binding estimate. Before loading, the mover must either confirm the old estimate, write a new one that you both sign, or agree in writing to treat it as non-binding, if it goes ahead with the move. After loading, the estimate cannot be changed. The simple fix: list everything at the survey, including the basement, the storage unit and the balcony.

The 110 percent rule

On a non-binding estimate, you cannot be required to pay more than 110 percent of the estimate at delivery, plus any services you added after the bill of lading and a capped amount for unusual access charges (49 CFR 375.703). When you pay that amount, the mover must hand over your things. If the final charges come out higher, the rest is billed to you after delivery. So a low estimate does not lower your final bill; it only changes when you pay the rest.

Line by line: what to check

  • Your name, both addresses, and the date or date range for pickup and delivery.
  • The words “binding” or “not binding” on the face of the estimate.
  • The list of items. Compare it with what you really own, room by room.
  • Services: packing, unpacking, taking furniture apart and putting it back, crating, storage. If you want it, it should be on the page.
  • Access at both homes: stairs, elevators and a long walk from the truck. The rules say the mover must work out charges for things like elevators and long carries before preparing the bill of lading.
  • The forms of payment the mover will accept at delivery.
  • The liability notice: Full Value Protection, or waiving it in writing for the much lower Released Value. Read this part before you choose.
  • Both signatures and the date.

Papers that come with the estimate

With the written estimate, an interstate mover must give you (or link you to) two federal publications: “Ready to Move?” and “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”. Before you sign the bill of lading you should also get a summary of the mover’s arbitration program, its complaint process with a main phone number, and a notice that you can see its tariff (49 CFR 375.213). Our site footer links both federal publications.

Once the estimate is right, the next paper is the bill of lading. Our guide Bill of Lading: What to Check Before You Sign shows what it must list, and Damaged or Missing Items After a Move: How a Claim Works explains what happens if something is damaged.

Moves that stay inside one state

The rules above are the federal rules for moves between states. A move that stays inside New York State is licensed by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), and a move that stays inside New Jersey by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Public Movers and Warehousemen). Their rules are not the same, so ask your mover which rules cover your move and get the answer in writing with your estimate.

Common questions

Is a phone quote the same as a written estimate?

No. For interstate moves the estimate must be in writing and signed by you and the mover. FMCSA’s booklet says a verbal quote is not an official estimate.

What is the difference between a binding and a non-binding estimate?

A binding estimate guarantees the total cost for the items and services listed. A non-binding estimate is the mover’s best figure; the final charges depend on the actual weight and the mover’s tariff.

How much do I pay at delivery on a non-binding estimate?

Under the federal rules, no more than 110 percent of the non-binding estimate at delivery, plus services you added after the bill of lading and a capped amount for unusual access charges. Anything above that is billed after delivery.

Can the estimate change on moving day?

Only before loading and only if you both agree, for example when you add items. After loading, the estimate cannot be changed.

How do I get a free written estimate from you?

Call (929) 339-6014 or use the quote form on our home page.

Free written estimate: call (929) 339-6014 or use the quote form on our home page. Family business since 1999 · U.S. DOT No. 967970 (MC-432549) · NYSDOT 34875 · NJPM 000930 · Company facts

We checked the official links on this page on October 11, 2026. Rules change, so confirm on the linked page before you rely on them.

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