Table of contents
The three estimate types you'll see in 2026
| Estimate type | What you pay | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Non-binding | Based on actual weight at pickup. Can go up or down. | Shippers with a clean, stable inventory and flexibility |
| Binding | Locked at the estimate — neither party can change the price | Budgeters who want a fixed number |
| Binding-not-to-exceed (guaranteed) | Caps the price but lowers it if actual weight is less | Most households — best of both |
What actually drives the number
- Inventory weight — for interstate moves, pricing is based on dry weight of the shipment in pounds
- Mileage — tariff mileage between ZIP codes, not Google Maps miles
- Access at both ends — stairs, elevator reservations, long carry, parking
- Packing service level — full pack, partial pack (fragile only), or self-pack
- Disassembly / reassembly — beds, large dining sets, modular furniture
- Season and week — peak summer and month-end weekends cost more
- Storage-in-transit — warehouse days between pickup and delivery
How to get three comparable quotes
- Prepare one written inventory list (rooms, large items, box count estimate) and send the same list to every mover.
- Request an on-site or video survey — never accept a binding price without one for any move over 500 lbs.
- Insist on a line-item estimate that separates transport, packing, fuel, valuation, and accessorials.
- Check that USDOT / MC numbers match the company doing the survey (avoid brokers unless disclosed).
- Read the bill of lading language — especially the delivery spread and the process for handling overage weight.
Red flags in a moving quote
What a professional quote actually looks like
You should receive a written document that includes the carrier's legal name, USDOT and MC numbers, the survey weight or cubic footage, a line-item rate (transportation, packing, valuation, fuel surcharge, accessorials), the delivery spread, the cancellation policy, and a valuation option signed by you. If any of that is missing, the number on the page is a marketing figure — not a quote.
DIY vs. full-service: how quotes compare
| Approach | Typical cost | Time you spend | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY truck rental | $1,800 – $3,200 | 30–40 hours | You carry everything, including liability |
| Portable container (PODS-style) | $2,400 – $4,200 | 20–30 hours | You pack + load, they drive |
| Full-service move | $5,800 – $9,600 | 6–10 hours | Mover carries damage + injury liability |
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be home for the in-home survey?
Someone over 18 should be home, but most surveys today are done by video call in 20–30 minutes. You walk the estimator through each room and closet on your phone.
Is the lowest quote always a red flag?
Not always — but if it's more than 20% below the other two written estimates, treat it as a bid error or a setup for upsells at pickup. Ask for written justification of the delta before signing.
How long is a moving quote valid?
Interstate estimates are typically valid for 30 days, though many carriers will honor a quote up to 60 days if the dates and inventory do not change. Rates on a non-binding estimate can drift with fuel surcharges.
Can my quote go up on move day?
On a binding-not-to-exceed estimate, it can only go down. On a non-binding estimate, it can rise if the actual weight is higher than estimated. A binding estimate locks the price unless you add services on the spot.
How much deposit is normal?
For most U.S. movers, 0–20% is standard. Carriers that demand 30%+ up front or full payment before delivery are outside the industry norm — be cautious.
What's a fuel surcharge?
A tariff-based percentage that adjusts with diesel prices. It should be stated as a percentage of line-haul charges and disclosed up front, not added as a surprise on the delivery invoice.
Sources & further reading
- FTC — Working with a moving company ↗
Federal Trade Commission
- BBB — How to spot a moving scam ↗
Better Business Bureau
