When moving with a reliable moving company, getting a written estimate on how much you are moving is a necessary when preparing for a move. There are three types of estimates each with its pros and cons.
The first is called a Binding Not-To- Exceed, which means that even if your total weight is over what the estimate was, you will only pay for what you were quoted. However, if you weight is less then what you were quoted then your price is adjusted appropriately.
The second type is a Binding estimate. A Binding estimate means you are paying a fixed price and the weight of your move does not matter. This can be a risky estimate if you do not have an honest mover. The third and final type of estimate is a Non-Binding, which is when you agree to pay based on the price per pound of your move. Therefore you price will fluctuate depending on how much you are moving. A final note, most local moving companies will bill by the hour of work and not by the weight of your move.