Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates

One of the most common questions customers ask is whether their moving estimate is binding or  non-binding. The answer depends on the type of move you are planning.

At Paradise Moving & Storage, we typically provide binding estimates for long-distance  moves and non-binding estimates for local moves. 

What Is a Binding Estimate? 

A binding estimate is a flat-rate price based on the inventory and services listed during the  quoting process. 

This pricing method is most commonly used for interstate and long-distance moves, where  customers prefer to know their total moving cost in advance. 

As long as the inventory, services, and access conditions remain the same, the agreed-upon price  will not change. 

Binding Estimates Are Ideal For: 

✓ Interstate moves 

✓ Cross-country relocations 

Important Note 

A binding estimate is based on the inventory and information provided during the quoting  process. 

If additional items are added, additional services are requested, or access conditions differ from  what was originally discussed, the estimate may need to be revised before the move begins. 

What Is a Non-Binding Estimate? 

A non-binding estimate is an approximation of the expected moving cost based on the  information available at the time of the quote. 

This type of estimate is most commonly used for local moves because local moving companies  typically charge by the hour. 

At Paradise Moving & Storage, local moves are billed based on: 

✓ Actual labor time 

✓ Travel time 

✓ Packing materials used (if applicable)

Because every move is different, the final cost is based on the actual time required to complete  your move. 

Non-Binding Estimates Are Ideal For: 

✓ Local moves within Massachusetts 

✓ Apartment moves 

✓ House-to-house moves 

✓ Moves where inventory may change before moving day 

Why Can Local Move Costs Vary? 

The estimated labor time provided during the quoting process is based on the information  available at that time. 

Actual moving time can be affected by factors such as: 

✓ Additional items not included in the original inventory 

✓ Long walking distances 

✓ Multiple flights of stairs 

✓ Elevator wait times 

✓ Narrow hallways or doorways 

✓ Traffic conditions 

✓ Customer packing preparation 

✓ Last-minute changes to the scope of work 

For this reason, local move estimates should be viewed as a realistic projection rather than a  guaranteed final price. 

Paradise Moving & Storage Pricing Philosophy

Our goal is to provide accurate estimates and complete transparency. 

For local moves, we provide estimated labor ranges based on our experience with similar moves,  but billing is based on the actual time spent performing the move.

For long-distance moves, we typically provide flat-rate binding estimates based on the inventory  and services agreed upon before moving day. 

We strongly recommend video surveys or in-home estimates whenever possible, as they allow us  to provide the most accurate pricing and avoid surprises on moving day. 

If you have any questions about your estimate, our team is always happy to explain how pricing  works and which estimate type applies to your move.