There are three different types of estimates: non-binding, option binding, and firm binding.
A non-binding estimate is the approximation of the carrier’s cost, depending on the estimated weight of the cargo as well as the additional services requested. The overall cost will be dependent on the exact weight of your goods, the services rendered, and the tariff given in effect.
A firm binding estimate is a contract between the agent and the customer that the moving cost will be a certain dollar amount based on the calculated weight of the belongings and the actual services requested. If the exact weight of the shipment is not the same as the agent had expected, the price of the move would remain the same.
An option binding estimate (also referred to as not-to-exceed estimate) is an agreement between the agent and the client that the moving cost will not exceed a certain amount of dollar depending on the calculated weight of the shipment as well as the services requested. If the anticipated weight of the goods is below estimation, then the client’s bill is reduced by the actual amount of the cost linked with the weight distinction between the estimated and exact weight.