Reasons to ask for a binding moving estimate
Employing Moving Experts - April 22, 2019
It’s moving time! And you have no idea where to start, right? Well, there are three crucial factors that will determine your moving experience. Those are your moving budget, local movers Massachusetts you choose and a plan (hopefully made on time). You got all three figured out? And what about a moving estimate? Did you get one already? If you are not a fan of surprises and you like to have control of everything, a binding moving estimate could be the right choice for you. Let’s give it some thought and learn what this type of moving quote is, how to ask for it and why.
What is it exactly?
Don’t feel embarrassed if you don’t know what a binding moving quote is, many people don’t. First of all, you should know that this type of estimate probably isn’t the one that movers will offer you, at least not right away. Also, it usually isn’t the free moving estimate you can get online, because it requires more details than the non-binding one. Basically, the binding moving estimate is the type of estimate that includes all of your relocation expenses. It should guarantee that a moving company couldn’t surprise you with any unexpected expenses.
This means that with good movers and a binding moving quote, you can plan your moving budget and rely on it. If you are moving on a limited budget, this is a good idea. Because your movers won’t charge you a dime more than the amount you have agreed on in the beginning. Even if your cargo weighs more or less than the estimated amount. When you have this type of estimate and additional charges happen somewhere in the process, your movers will cover them. Of course, this doesn’t include having more things to move than you have stated.
How does it work?
- The binding estimate should accurately describe the shipment and all the services the company will provide. Let’s say you asked the moving company to provide additional services, such as to move a piano. Piano movers Massachusetts should bill you separately for these charges and inform you about it. On moving day, the moving company cannot charge you more than the amount of the binding estimate.
- A binding moving quote should be in writing, and you should get a copy before the move.
- Payment should be due to delivery. When you agree to a binding estimate, you should pay the amount due by the time of delivery. Of course, if they want to, your movers can agree to payment before or after that. This is up to the moving company you hire and your negotiation skills.
- Movers should clearly state that the estimate is binding to you. Each binding quote should also state that the charges are only for services outlined in the document.
- Once your mover loads all your belongings, they have practically agreed to the binding estimate. They cannot make changes then nor add any additional costs. Except for additional services and charges you have already agreed on before, of course. The only thing they can charge upon delivery is a binding moving estimate.
Avoid last-minute add-ons
Movers can refuse to provide you with services if you surprise them! Yes, they don’t like surprises either. So, before loading your shipment, if movers think you have additional things that are not stated in the estimate, they can refuse you service. So, try not to do that. Make sure everything you are moving is clearly outlined in the quote.
And if you need to add items in the last minute, just tell your mover so you can make a new agreement before they start to load your shipment. Once the mover agrees to move your belongings, they should either confirm the binding estimate, negotiate a revised written one listing the additional items or services or add an attachment to the contract, in writing. That should include that you will both consider the original binding estimate as a non-binding estimate. Try to keep it simple, and avoid any last-minute add-ons if you can. Not only it can lead to a higher-priced move, but it could also result in not having a mover on moving day.
Binding not-to-exceed estimate
You are wondering what the heck is this now. Be patient, you may just like it! Possibly the very best option of all binding and non-binding estimates is the binding not-to-exceed estimate. This means that if the actual weight of your shipment is more than the written estimate, you still pay the agreed amount. But surprisingly, if the actual weight is less than the written estimate, you pay the lesser amount. Sounds almost too good to be true, right? Basically, if you ask for a binding not-to-exceed estimate, you will never pay a higher price than what’s on the estimate. On the contrary, your price can only go lower. It’s a win-win situation, so ask your movers for it.
Reasons to ask for a binding moving estimate
Binding estimate protects you from surprises and unexpected additional expenses. If you are not a fan of surprises, especially the unpleasant ones (and who is?), this will give you peace of mind. It will provide you the exact amount you should count on, which is especially worthy when moving on a budget. A non- binding moving quote can often be unreliable, because it sometimes doesn’t cover all services, and it can change. People often get surprised when they receive the bill of lading because it’s different than the estimate they got. So, no surprises, full control and the exact amount you can count on- that is what binding moving estimate brings you. Sounds good? Try it!