A non-binding moving estimate is an approximation of the cost of a move. Unlike a binding estimate, the final charge is based on the actual weight of the shipment at delivery — not the estimate. The bill can be higher or lower than quoted. Under FMCSA's 110% rule, movers cannot collect more than 110% of the estimated amount at delivery, but the balance above that is still owed within 30 days.
Estimate Type
Approximation — final price based on actual weight
110% Rule
Mover can only collect 110% at delivery — balance due in 30 days
Consumer Right
Right to be present at weigh-in and request a free reweigh
A non-binding estimate is one of three types of moving estimates regulated by the FMCSA for interstate moves (along with binding and binding-not-to-exceed). The mover provides a written estimate before the move based on their best assessment of the shipment weight and required services.
The key characteristic: the estimate is not a price guarantee. The final charge is determined after the shipment is weighed on a certified scale. If the actual weight is higher than estimated, the customer owes more. If lower, they pay less.
Federal law requires that the written non-binding estimate include a clear statement that the final charges may differ. The estimate must specify the services included and reference the mover's tariff rates.
The final bill on a non-binding estimate is calculated as follows:
Shipment is weighed
The loaded truck is weighed on a certified scale at origin or destination. The weight of the empty truck (tare weight) is subtracted to determine the net weight of the shipment.
Linehaul charge is calculated
Net weight × tariff rate for the distance transported = linehaul charge. For example: 7,200 lbs × $0.82/lb for a 900-mile move = $5,904.
Accessorial charges are added
Any additional services performed — stair carries, long carries, packing, shuttle service, elevator fees — are added using the mover's tariff rates for those services.
Fuel surcharge is applied
Most tariffs include a fuel surcharge calculated as a percentage of the linehaul charge. This varies with fuel prices.
Valuation charge is added
The cost of Full Value Protection (if selected) is added. Released Value Protection is included at no charge.
The 110% rule is a federal consumer protection under 49 CFR 375.403 that limits how much a mover can collect at delivery on a non-binding estimate.
How it works
Non-binding estimate: $4,500
Actual final charge: $5,200
110% of estimate: $4,950
Amount due at delivery: $4,950 (110% of estimate)
Remaining balance: $250 — due within 30 days
The mover cannot hold your shipment at delivery until the full amount above 110% is paid. They must release it upon payment of 110% of the estimate. The balance above that amount is billed separately and due within 30 days.
Important
The 110% rule applies only at the moment of delivery. You still owe the full final amount — the rule only limits what the mover can demand before releasing your goods. The balance above 110% must be paid within 30 days.
Good fit for non-binding
Consider binding instead
Get a thorough inventory survey
The accuracy of a non-binding estimate depends directly on the quality of the inventory assessment. In-home surveys, AI video walkthroughs, and detailed phone questionnaires all produce more accurate estimates than rough phone guesses. The closer the estimate is to the actual weight, the smaller the risk of a surprise bill.
Ask about the tariff rate
Know the rate per pound being applied and the distance. This lets you quickly verify whether the final weight-based charge is correct before signing at delivery.
Exercise your right to attend the weigh-in
Ask the mover when and where the truck will be weighed. You are entitled to be present. If the weight seems significantly higher than expected, request a reweigh immediately — the mover must accommodate this at no charge.
Consider binding-not-to-exceed for long-distance moves
If you're moving long distance and want price certainty, ask whether the mover offers binding-not-to-exceed estimates. This type caps your maximum cost while still allowing you to pay less if the actual weight comes in under the estimate.
| Factor | Non-Binding | Binding | Binding-Not-to-Exceed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price guaranteed? | No | Yes | Yes (maximum) |
| Bill can be higher? | Yes | No | No |
| Bill can be lower? | Yes | No | Yes |
| Based on actual weight? | Yes | No | Yes (if lower) |
| 110% rule applies? | Yes | N/A | N/A |
| Best for budget certainty? | No | Yes | Yes |
The primary risk of non-binding estimates — for both movers and customers — is an inaccurate initial estimate. Movers who consistently underestimate generate customer disputes and damaged relationships at delivery. Movers who overestimate lose jobs to competitors.
DriveSales moving estimate software addresses this through AI video surveys that catalog inventory automatically, standardized weight tables for 200+ item types, and pricing rules that apply accessorial charges based on job details. The result is estimates that closely reflect actual move weights — reducing delivery-day surprises on both sides.
110%
The maximum a mover can collect at delivery on a non-binding estimate. The balance above 110% is due within 30 days.
Ask about binding-not-to-exceed
Many movers offer binding-not-to-exceed as their default for long-distance moves. It gives customers a price ceiling with the upside of paying less — and reduces disputes at delivery.
Rogue movers
Some fraudulent movers give a low non-binding estimate, then inflate the final bill and hold goods hostage. Always verify FMCSA registration before booking any interstate mover.
Common questions from customers and moving company owners.
DriveSales AI video surveys and cube sheet calculators produce estimates that closely match actual weight — protecting your margin and your customer relationships.