Getting the Moving Estimate

 

When selecting a mover you need to figure out the cost of relocation. The cost depends on the weight of your belongings and the distance to be traveled. The amount will vary according to the services request by you. Packing supplies are usually at additional cost. Your mover will give you a moving estimate of the cost to be incurred.

Before deciding the type of estimate, let the mover know what services you are exactly looking at. Give him all the details of your move including the list of items. Also, let him know the high value items that require extra care. Also get the information on how he will calculate the estimated price. Ask in advance about the additional charges. You may also discuss the storage options in case you will not be able to move to your new place immediately.

Make sure you get a written estimate from the mover. It is advisable to get moving estimates from different moving companies and compare the prices and services and then choose the right mover. Most movers offer two types of moving estimates – Binding and Non-Binding. The third type of estimate is Binding 'Not-To-Exceed' estimate.

 

Binding Estimate:

 

Under a binding estimate, the mover offers a fixed guaranteed price allowing a small percentage of deviation. The deviation is based on number of items to be moved and the services to be performed. You are bound to pay the set price irrespective of shipment weighing more or less than the estimates price. Only those goods and services are covered that are listed on the estimate. In case there is some addition to items or some additional services are to be performed, the mover will revise the original estimate. Also the mover reserves the right to charge for services required for delivery even if those wee not included in the estimate. All the additional services undertaken are charged for after 30 days of delivery of shipment.

 

Non-Binding Estimate:

 

Non-binding or hourly rate is just the price list based on approximation of the cost based on mover's experience. It is based on the actual weight of the shipment and not the estimated weight. Under this type of estimate, you are not to pay the mover more than the amount of estimate plus 10%. Basically you pay for the actual weight based on a fixed price per pound. The actual amount of bill could be higher or lower than the estimate. If there are some additional services undertaken, whether requested by you or undertaken as they were necessary, the additional bill is charged over the additional 10 %. The additional charges are to be paid 30 days after the shipment is delivered. The price under a non-binding estimate is usually lower than binding estimate.

 

Binding 'Not To Exceed' Estimate:

 

This type of estimate is considered most favorable for the customers as this quote is binding only on the mover. Under this type of estimate, the final price cannot exceed the set price. That is, even if the actual weight is more than the original estimate, you will still pay for estimated amount. However, if the final price is less than the estimated amount then the lesser amount is applicable. Thus, a binding-not-to-exceed estimate can only go lower than the estimated price. However, you will be charged more if the extra items exceed the estimate. A slight risk element in this type of estimate is that if the mover sees that the job will cost more than the anticipated price, they may compromise on packing the items. This can be a risk to the goods.

 

Whatever be the type of the moving estimate, several factors can cause the actual price can vary from the estimate price. Some movers do not accept personal checks while some accept credit card payments. So, make sure that you discuss the method of payment clearly with your mover before moving.

 

Miami Movers

Moving you forward