Quote comparison guide
How to compare moving quotes apples to apples
Do not compare totals until the estimates describe the same belongings, services, price basis, liability option, and timing. Put each complete written estimate side by side, label every difference, and ask for written clarification before signing.
1. Collect the complete written estimate
For an interstate move, the mover must provide a written estimate of total charges and identify it as binding or non-binding. The estimate is based on a physical survey unless the shipper waives that survey in a written agreement signed before loading. FMCSA describes a physical survey as on-site or virtual so the mover can see the goods. Source: 49 CFR § 375.401; source: Appendix A to Part 375.
Before comparing, make sure each estimate is dated, signed, readable, and accompanied by the inventory or shipment description and every referenced attachment. A verbal rate quote is not a written estimate under FMCSA's consumer guidance. Source: FMCSA, Avoid Unexpected Moving Costs.
2. Match the estimate type and price basis
Binding estimate
A binding estimate covers the quantities and services specifically identified in the document. It must be in writing, state that it is binding, and clearly describe the shipment and services. Added goods or services can require a reaffirmed or revised agreement before loading. Source: 49 CFR § 375.403.
Non-binding estimate
A non-binding estimate is an approximation rather than a guaranteed final total. It must explain that final charges can exceed the estimate and must describe the entire shipment and services. For the quantities and services shown, it must state that no more than 110 percent of the estimate is required at delivery, subject to the regulation's separate treatment of later-requested services and impracticable operations. Source: 49 CFR § 375.405.
The 110 percent rule is not a universal final-price cap
It limits what an interstate mover may require at delivery for the quantities and services covered by a non-binding estimate. Shipper-requested services added after the bill of lading may be collected separately, and qualifying impracticable-operations charges collected at delivery may not exceed 15 percent of all other charges then due. Read the estimate and the applicable regulation before treating 110 percent as the most you could ever owe. Source: 49 CFR § 375.405(b)(8)–(10); source: § 375.407.
3. Reconcile inventory, weight, and volume
Compare the item list room by room. Match quantities, sizes, packed boxes, unusually heavy items, fragile items, and anything requiring disassembly. A total based on fewer belongings is not directly comparable to a more complete estimate.
Record whether the price is based on weight, volume, a binding shipment description, time and labor, or another stated basis. For an interstate non-binding estimate based on volume that will later be converted to weight, the mover must provide the conversion formula in writing. Source: 49 CFR § 375.401(e).
4. Match every included and excluded service
Review transportation separately from packing, unpacking, materials, appliance servicing, stairs, elevators, long carries, shuttles, storage, extra stops, bulky-item handling, piano service, waiting time, and access restrictions. Do not mark a service as included unless the estimate says so.
Federal interstate rules require the estimate to address transportation and related services; accessorial charges such as elevators and long carries must be determined before the bill of lading is prepared. Source: 49 CFR § 375.401(f).
5. Compare liability choices, not just the word “coverage”
Interstate estimates must present a liability election. The federal consumer booklet describes Full Value Protection and a written waiver of Full Value Protection for Released Value, which limits mover liability to 60 cents per pound per article. These options are not economically equivalent, so a price comparison should show which one each estimate uses and any related charge. Source: Appendix A to 49 CFR Part 375.
Liability is not the same thing as a general promise that every loss will be fully insured. Read the valuation selection, exclusions, claims terms, and any separate third-party policy documents.
6. Build one comparison matrix
| Field | What to record | Why a mismatch matters |
|---|---|---|
| Estimate type | Binding or non-binding | The same dollar total carries different pricing obligations. |
| Shipment basis | Inventory, weight, volume, labor, or stated combination | Different quantities or units can hide differences in the belongings included. |
| Services | Included, excluded, optional, or not found | An omitted service may be charged later or require another provider. |
| Liability | Selected option, declared value, charge, and exclusions | Released Value and Full Value Protection are not equivalent. |
| Schedule | Pickup and delivery dates or windows; guaranteed or estimated | A lower price may involve a wider or non-guaranteed window. |
| Payment | Deposit, due dates, accepted forms, cancellation, and refund terms | Cash flow and cancellation exposure can differ even at the same total. |
7. Resolve differences before choosing
For each blank or mismatch, ask a narrow written question: “Is this included?”, “Which inventory line covers it?”, “What rate applies?”, or “What would make this charge change?” Keep the answer with the estimate.
FMCSA recommends comparing estimates from at least three movers or brokers, including both cost and services, and verifying interstate registration and complaint history. Source: FMCSA Moving Checklist.
Need help interpreting the federal labels? Read the binding vs non-binding moving estimates guide.