What's the difference between a binding and a non-binding estimate?

A binding estimate fixes the price unless you add things or services.

A non-binding estimate is a guess. On a move between states, the mover can't make you pay more than the estimate plus 10% at delivery; anything above that is billed later, after at least 30 days.

A binding not-to-exceed estimate is the best of both: the price can go down if the load is lighter, never up.

Source: FMCSA, interstate moving rules · Checked October 2026

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