Binding Estimate
A Binding Estimate is a guaranteed, fixed-price quote for your move, based on the agreed services and inventory. Once confirmed, this cost will not increase, even if the actual time or weight ends up being more than expected.
What It Includes
- A walkthrough (in-person or virtual) by a moving specialist
- A detailed inventory of items to be moved
- List of services requested (e.g., packing, storage, disassembly)
- Access information at both pickup and delivery locations
- The total cost that will not change unless the scope of the move changes
When It’s Used
- Typically for larger or long-distance moves
- When the customer’s inventory is well-defined
- Ideal if you want price certainty and no surprise charges
What You Should Know
- The estimate is only binding if nothing changes. Adding extra furniture, requesting more services, or encountering unexpected challenges (like extra stairs or limited access) can lead to a revised estimate.
- You should review the item list carefully — both you and the moving company are agreeing to move exactly what’s listed.
Example
Let’s say you’re moving the contents of a 3-bedroom house, and you receive a binding estimate of $2,800 based on a walkthrough. As long as you don’t add more items or change the plan, you’ll pay exactly that amount — no surprise charges on moving day.