What is a "not to exceed" moving estimate?
Quick Answer
A not-to-exceed (NTE) estimate sets a maximum price you will pay, but allows the final cost to be lower if the actual weight is less than estimated. It combines the security of a binding estimate with the savings potential of a non-binding one.
A binding not-to-exceed estimate is widely considered the best type of moving estimate for consumers. Here is how it works.
The mover surveys your belongings and provides a maximum price. If the actual weight of your shipment exceeds the estimate, you pay only the quoted amount - the mover absorbs the difference. If the actual weight is less than estimated, the price is adjusted downward and you pay less.
This gives you the best of both worlds: price certainty (you know the maximum you will pay) and savings potential (you benefit if the move is lighter than expected).
Example: a mover provides a NTE estimate of $5,500 for your 2-bedroom move, estimating 6,000 pounds. If the actual weight comes in at 6,800 pounds, you still pay $5,500. If it comes in at 5,200 pounds, you pay the lower weight-based price, perhaps $4,800.
Not all movers offer NTE estimates, and some charge a small premium over their non-binding price for the guaranteed ceiling. It is worth asking for and usually worth the extra cost.
Important: a NTE estimate only covers what was included in the original inventory. If you add items at pickup that were not surveyed, the mover can issue a revised estimate for the additional items.