Flat Rate Long Distance Movers / Binding Estimates
Want a guaranteed cost estimate on your interstate relocation? Some people call it a flat rate long distance mover, a binding not-to-exceed estimate, or a fixed price out of state moving company. The correct term for this is “binding estimate” or “binding not to exceed estimate.” Reputable long distance moving companies like American National Movers can give you a flat fee on your shipment with no hidden costs, but there are some things you must follow to ensure you qualify for a guaranteed price. Both you and your selected movers need to follow the rules and guidelines set in place to avoid breach of contract. This article will explain your rights and responsibilities when seeking an all-inclusive long distance moving quote with no hidden fees.
How To Get A Binding Not To Exceed Estimate
Shopping around for long distance movers can sometimes feel like you’re in a used car market. Many movers claim to be reputable, but when you search their name online, you see several complaints regarding hidden fees. That’s probably why you're on this page now: to avoid cost increases so that you can budget for your long distance movers accordingly.
Even though there are many negative reviews of long distance moving companies, people still want to hire movers but prefer a fixed price rather than a changing quote. However, simply telling your movers you don’t want hidden fees won't guarantee the price. You need to take certain steps to make your estimate legally binding.
Extremely Accurate Furniture List
A binding estimate will only protect you from price increases if you give your long distance movers an accurate list of your belongings. If you leave out more than two items, the. long distance moving company can legally cancel your flat rate and charge you based on volume instead. To prevent this, make sure to provide a complete and accurate list so your movers can give you a proper quote.
Get a Binding Estimate In Writing
Once you have given your movers an accurate list of items, make sure your estimate includes the words “binding” or “binding not-to-exceed.” If these terms are missing, your movers can change your out of state moving costs at any time, before or during your move.
Hire A Reputable Mover
Do your due diligence and hire a reputable moving company, or none of this will even matter. Consumers have reported that disreputable long distance moving companies have failed to honor their quotes, even when the mover agreed to the flat rate in writing. As scary as this may sound, it’s easy to avoid. Simply research your mover and see how often and what kinds of complaints they have. If a mover has some negative reviews, they may still be a good option as long as the complaints aren’t significant.
Understanding Different Types Of Moving Estimates
When seeking a long distance moving quote, there are three types of moving estimates: binding, non-binding, and binding-not-to-exceed. A binding estimate guarantees your price; a binding-not-to-exceed estimate is a quote with a ceiling of the maximum you will be required to pay, and a non-binding estimate is a standard quote that can increase at any point during your relocation process.
Please see the value cards below for a brief and concise description. For a more detailed description on binding, binding-not-to-exceed, and non-binding estimates, please see the content below the chart.
Binding Estimate
A binding estimate requires your long distance movers to provide a flat rate for your interstate relocation. Binding estimates cannot go up or down, so if your mover underestimated or overestimated your quote, the price will remain the same.
Binding-Not-To-Exceed
A binding-not-to-exceed estimate sets a maximum price you will pay if your estimated weight or volume is inaccurate. This type of estimate isn’t common, but some consumers opt for it because the quote can go down if the movers overestimate the space. However, many moving estimates are under-estimated rather than over-estimated. Which is why a binding estimate rather than a not-to-exceed is recommended.
Non-Binding Estimate
A non-binding estimate is listed as “estimate” on a moving contract. Non-binding estimates are charged at a lower rate per cubic foot or per weight, but they are subject to a price change on moving day. Non-binding estimates are common for smaller long distance moves, but we do not recommend them for 3+ bedroom homes.
A reminder to provide an extensive inventory list and a generous box count when negotiating a flat rate (binding estimate) with long distance movers. Otherwise, your guaranteed cost estimate will be revoked for failing to disclose an accurate inventory list. If you hired a reputable mover and you forgot to mention a minor item, it shouldn’t be a problem. However, disreputable moving companies may look for any excuse to revoke the flat rate by arguing that you forgot to mention specific items or boxes.
⚠️ Remember, Flat Rate Long Distance Moving Quotes Can Change If the Inventory Is Inaccurate
Binding Vs Non-Binding Estimates
If you're moving from a large home, a binding estimate is recommended; for a small move, a non-binding estimate is generally a common choice. Here is why:
Binding Estimates Are Charged a Higher Rate Per Volume, or Charged as a Fee
Because your long distance movers will guarantee your price, they charge a higher rate per pound or cubic foot to protect themselves against a loss if the estimate is inaccurate. In some cases, a broker will charge a binding estimate fee, a surcharge added to your quote to guarantee your cost.
Non-Binding Estimates Are Charged a Lower Rate Per Volume
Many consumers have decided to go with a non-binding estimate because paying a higher rate per volume is not worth it for smaller long distance moves. In this case, it might be better to get a non-binding, accurate estimate to avoid the added fees.
Get a binding estimate, if you have a lot of furniture, because it protects you from significant price increases. But if your move is small, provided that you hire a reputable long distance moving company a non-binding estimate is economical and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Below are frequent questions people ask when searching for long distance movers that provide flat rates also known as guaranteed costs and binding estimates:
1) What Does Binding Moving Estimate Mean?
A binding moving estimate means your long distance movers are giving you a flat-rate quote. Provided that your inventory list is accurate, your moving costs will not change.
2) What Does Non-Binding Moving Estimate Mean?
A non-binding estimate is not a flat rate, so your quote may increase when your long distance movers arrive. Because consumers often don't understand the different estimate types, a non-binding estimate is among the most common.
3) What Is A Binding Estimate Fee
A binding estimate fee is a fee charged by long distance moving broker to guarantee your price. Please be wary of binding estimate fees, as most brokers fail to honor their binding contracts because they are brokers, not carriers.
4) Is A Estimate Legally Binding?
An estimate is legally binding if your estimated contract has a binding clause on it. If your estimate doesn't state “binding,” then the company can legally change the price if they feel they under-quoted the job.
5) How Do I Know If My Estimate Is Binding?
Near your estimated costs, your contract should state binding or binding-not-to-exceed. If your contract doesn't state that, then your estimate is not binding and subject to change.
6) Is A Binding Estimate Worth It?
In many cases, a binding estimate is worth it because it holds your long distance movers to a flat rate. A binding estimate is a great option for peace of mind, allowing consumers to budget accordingly.
7) How To Get An Accurate Moving Estimate?
To ensure you're getting an accurate moving estimate, you need to understand how long distance movers calculate costs, get quotes from reputable brands, and provide a detailed inventory list. This greatly reduces the risk of price changes and deceptive business practices.
Get A Flat Rate Long Distance Moving Quote
To maintain our reputation and earn your business, American National Movers provides flat-rate, all-inclusive long distance moving estimates. This means your estimate is binding and guaranteed not to change on moving day. Some movers may be hesitant to offer a flat-fee, guaranteed price, but we prefer it because we understand that our growth is tied to our reputation and consumer satisfaction. Call us today for a quote at (800)-936-3086