a hand holding a scale

The difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes

When you plan to move, you have to find a good moving company. They will make the whole process much easier for you. However, there are many moving-related documents you will have to sign and choices to make. Unless you have some previous experience dealing with this type of papyrology, then it might be confusing for you. To cast away any doubts you might have, here is all you need to know about the difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes. 

emojis showing the difference between biding and non-binding moving quotes
Which one to choose?

Moving company 

Before discussing the difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes, you should hire a moving company. It is always wise to do background research on at least three moving company. You can do this by reading reviews and comments that people leaving on their official page. After you see that people are generally satisfied with their services, you can call them to schedule an in-house survey. Each company will give you their estimate of the price, so you can compare them to see which one is the most suitable for your situation. If you are still searching for a moving company, then try calling Nomad moving company. 

The difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes – binding edition 

The main characteristic of a binding moving quote is the fixed price. When someone from the company comes, they will estimate your items. Based on this estimation, they will come up with the price for your relocation. If you are on a tight budget, then this might be the perfect option for you. With the binding moving quotes, the price remains the same. This means you will not receive the bill with the higher cost even if your things end up being heavier than the original estimation. The quote will change only if you decide to request additional moving services, for example, packing and unpacking service. It is always better to contact personally the moving company in order to make an official agreement with them. Additionally, do not forget to ask for clarification about things you do not understand. Noho movers will be more than happy to answer all your questions. 

Make sure you do not pay more than necessary 

Try not to add more items that are not the part of the estimate. First of all, it can be seen as rude behavior. Second of all, some movers might refuse the service since they already made a plan for your relocation, for example, the size of the moving truck. If you add more stuff, they need to adapt quickly as well. In addition to this, usually, you will pay the bill upon the delivery. In some cases, a moving company can ask to be paid up-front. However, you should be very careful then since this can be a sign that they are not reliable. Furthermore, your estimate should be included in the bill of lading in order to prevent movers from adding any additional services.  

a person signing a document
Be careful when you sign documents

The difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes – non-binding edition 

The main difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes is the price variations. As you can see, with binding moving quotes, the price will always stay the same. However, non-binding moving quotes are different since the price might and will vary. Since the weight of your items can change, the price will follow as well. For this reason, some moving companies only offer this type of moving quotes in order to make shady deals. That is why you should avoid these companies and quotes since your price can be much higher than what you expected. However, in order to help other people, write a helpful moving review if the company deserves it.

The positive aspect of non-binding moving quotes 

Not everything should be so negative with this moving quote. It can be actually beneficial to you if you do not have many items. If your items do not weight a lot, so they are approximately around the minimum price of moving, then opt for this moving quote. The minimum price of moving is the price you need to pay for the moving services. So, you will know for sure that this is your final price even if the weight of your item is smaller. 

Binding not-to-exceed-estimate 

Binding not-to-exceed-estimate has become quite popular recently. The biggest reason why it is so popular is the fixed price. The price of your move will always remain the same even if the weight of your items exceeds the original estimate. However, the bad news is that if the weight of your items is smaller than the previous estimate, you still have to pay the original price. This is a good solution for people who are on a tight budget and not to want to risk it.  There are good ways to prepare your moving budget if you are struggling with this aspect.

Lower your moving costs 

If you cannot decide between these two options since everything sounds expensive, you can try to lower your moving costs. 

  • Choose the date of your move carefully. Opt for the middle of the month and the week if you can. 
  • Try to avoid the summer move if possible. 
  • Get your own moving boxes. 
  • Get rid of all the items you no longer use by organizing a garage sale or try selling them on eBay. 
  • See how far is your front door to the driveway. Movers will ask for more money if they have to take the stairs, walk a long distance and so on. 
  • Disassemble large furniture on your own. 
  • Pack some items on your own. 
piles of money next to the small wooden house
Save some money on moving

The difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes 

As you can see, the main difference between binding and non-binding moving quotes is the price change. If you are on a budget and do not want to risk it, then choose binding moving quotes. On the other hand, if you do not want to pay more than necessary, then go for non-binding moving quotes.