Federal law gives interstate household goods movers two kinds of estimate, binding and non-binding. The binding kind trades flexibility for certainty: the number on the page is the number you pay for what the page describes.
What the mover must put on it
A binding estimate must be in writing, based on a physical survey (on site or by live or recorded video) unless you waive the survey in writing, and clearly marked as binding on both parties. It must also say that the charges apply only to the services specifically identified, and it becomes part of the bill of lading contract.
The mover may charge for providing a written binding estimate, which is different from a non-binding estimate that must be free.
When the load or the work changes
The estimate protects the goods and services it lists. If you hand over more furniture or ask for more services, the mover need not honor it. Before loading, the mover must reaffirm the estimate, write a new binding estimate that you sign, or agree with you in writing to treat the original as non-binding.
Once the truck is loaded, silence counts as reaffirming the original, and the mover cannot collect more than that amount except for services added afterward with your approval or impracticable operations.
What you pay at delivery
The mover must hand over the shipment once you offer the binding amount plus those items.
- The full binding amount, when the whole shipment is delivered
- A prorated share by weight, if only part of the load is delivered
- Any added services you agreed to in writing
- Impracticable-operations charges, capped at 15 percent of the other charges due at delivery
Binding estimates and O'Brien's
O'Brien's prepares itemized written estimates, and a long-distance move is priced by weight, so the estimator sets out for you how the figure on your paper behaves. The free in-home estimate comes with 10 free heavy-duty boxes to keep.
Moves inside Nevada follow the Nevada Transportation Authority rules and an approved tariff, and your estimator will explain which applies. Call 775-359-6683 to book a visit.