The moment you decide to move there are many things you should consider. Your budget, moving cost, moving company, etc. When moving from state to state it can be more complicated, so you need to find the best professional movers. When planning a move, one of the first things you need to do is get an estimate of how much it will cost. But what kind of estimate should you get? Should you get a binding estimate or a non-binding estimate? The answer to the binding vs. non-binding moving estimate question depends on a few factors, which we’ll explore in this blog post.
Moving costs and how to calculate them
Before you move and hire a moving company you need to estimate your cost. There are two ways to have your cost calculated: binding and non-binding price estimate. Therefore, it helps to know the difference between these two – binding vs. non-binding moving estimate. This way, you can make a better, more informed decision when signing your next moving contract. A cost estimate is by its very nature a preliminary calculation that is not yet one hundred percent binding and often also contains different options of execution from which you can choose. So, make sure to consult your long distance movers Texas and get all the information before signing a contract.
Things to consider
It is of high importance when hiring a cross country moving company, to choose a moving company that is licensed and has a good reputation online. Before you hire a moving company and think about if you should go for a binding or non-binding moving estimate, there are some things to consider, such as:
- Research Companies – Look for their reputations online. In case something looks suspicious to you, don’t hire them.
- Get More Than One Estimate – Ask for at least 3 estimates from different long distance movers Dallas offers and compare them.
- Make Sure the Company is Legit – See if they seem dishonest or unprofessional and attract you with a low price.
- Get Insurance – Consider purchasing moving or relocation insurance.
- Get references on movers – Ask your friends and family if they have any recommendations.
Binding vs. Non-binding moving estimate – what you should know
When you’re planning a move, one of the first things you’ll need to do is get an estimate of the cost. But not all moving estimates are equal. There are two main types of estimates: binding and non-binding. So, what’s the difference?
A binding estimate is a firm price that the Houston long distance movers agree to honor, no matter how much time or effort it ends up taking. This can give you peace of mind, knowing that your final bill won’t be higher than the estimate. However, it’s important to note that if your shipment ends up being lighter than expected, you may still have to pay the full amount.
A non-binding estimate, on the other hand, is just an educated guess at what the final cost might be. The movers may give you a low estimate to get your business but then hit you with hidden fees or surcharges once they finish the job. For this reason, it’s always best to get a binding estimate whenever possible. That way, there are no surprises when it comes time to pay the bill.
Binding moving estimate
A binding estimate is a firm quote for the cost of your move. A binding estimate is when the moving company guarantees a fixed price estimate based on the rough weight of your belongings. Once you’ve received a binding estimate, from your long distance movers Austin TX the price cannot be increased, no matter what. That’s why it’s called a “binding” estimate. This type of estimate is usually based on the weight of your belongings and the distance they will be traveling. From the estimated weight, the moving company will come up with a total price for you to pay.
If you agree to a binding estimate, you will pay that amount no matter what. The moving company is then not allowed to change the price even if the weight is higher than the first estimate. On the other hand, if your belongings end up weighing less than was originally estimated you won’t pay any less either. You can easily come to an agreement with movers. The binding estimate comes with some advantages. For one, you don’t need to think about any additional costs, you will know the price in advance. Then you do not have to worry about the bill total at the end.
Non-Binding moving estimate
A non-binding estimate is not a firm quote. It is a quote based on the weight of your belongings as well. However, because it is “non-binding,” this estimate is not fixed and will most probably change. It’s an estimation of what your move might cost. It depends on the actual weight of your belongings. San Antonio long distance moving companies won’t be able to tell you the total cost of the move until everything is weighed on your moving day. If the weight is lower than the initial estimate, you’ll pay less and vice versa.
Non-binding estimates are a good option, if you don’t have many belongings and if you are moving on short notice. The final price could be more or less than the non-binding estimate, depending on how much stuff you actually have and how far it needs to go. If you’re unsure which items are going to include in your final move, go for a non-binding estimate. If you can handle the stress of not knowing the total price till the end it might not be the way to go for you.
Which type of estimate should you get?
If you’re moving long distance, you should always get a binding estimate. That way, you’ll know exactly how much your move is going to cost, and you won’t face any unexpected charges at the end. If you’re moving locally, you can choose between a binding and non-binding estimate. In case you opt for a non-binding estimate, just be aware that the final price could be higher than what you’re expecting.
Ask questions during the in-home estimate
Make a list of questions to ask each moving company during your in-home estimate. Their answers can help you to make your final decision. Ask interstate movers Charlotte NC if there are any extra fees you should know about. A good thing to ask is also is do their moving company has a license and insurance. A reasonable question would also be if packing services are also included in the total price. How long it will take for them to finish the move, is also an important question to ask. Make sure to ask everything that you need to know so that you are sure that you are choosing the best moving company that you can get.
Caution with offers from abroad
The Internet broadens the radius of action of customers as well as suppliers. In the search for a moving company, you can also find many offers online from a distance. Moving companies from abroad recommend their services with favorable all-inclusive prices. They offer lower prices to attract customers. When moving companies submit offers without having gained a personal impression on-site, there are reasons for suspicion. It’s important that you do detailed research. Look for any hidden moving fees and save your money. Always do the background check of a moving company and research on the Internet for reviews. With unchecked moving companies, you risk unforeseen extra charges, unsafe transport, potential damage, or theft.
Read the small print
When receiving an offer, you should also read the small print very carefully. The description of the services to be provided should be formulated in a comprehensible way and include all discussed costs. Packaging material costs, labor costs, and travel expenses of moving companies should include separately and add to the total. Any additional costs such as an estimated number of meters, estimated effort, and so on should be treated with caution. In this way, there can be a gateway to later additional costs. A detailed check of the offer for completeness decreases the risk.
Lower your moving costs
If you cannot decide between a binding vs. non-binding moving estimate, there are some things you can do so to lower your moving costs. You can sell and declutter. For example, an old sofa that you plan to have for a transitional period only, this is the best time to get rid of it. Or an old bookshelf that used its purpose. Get rid of all the items you no longer need by organizing a garage sale or trying to sell them on the internet. Get some moving boxes on your own. Pack some items by yourself, like your clothes and your books and documents. If possible, disassemble large furniture. If you can try to avoid moving during the summer.
Hopefully, we helped you decide between a binding vs. non-binding moving estimate. Whichever you choose, with a good moving company your relocation will be easy and stress-free
