Supplemental Estimate
Definition
A revised estimate issued on moving day when the shipment includes items not in the original survey. Common when movers discover additional items in the garage, attic, or storage that were not visible during the estimate.
A supplemental estimate (also called a revised estimate) is issued when the mover arrives on loading day and finds that the shipment is significantly different from what was originally surveyed.
Common triggers: items were stored in areas the estimator did not see (attic, storage unit, garage shelves), the customer added items since the estimate (new purchases, items from another location), items are heavier than estimated (e.g., a solid wood table vs. the assumed veneer), or the customer did not declutter as much as planned.
How it works: the mover cannot simply change the price without your consent. They must provide a revised written estimate (whether binding or non-binding) that you sign before loading continues. You have the right to refuse the revised estimate, but the mover may decline to load the additional items.
Protection: if you have a binding or NTE estimate, the mover can only issue a supplemental for items genuinely not included in the original survey. They cannot use the supplemental as a way to raise the price on items that were already counted.
Prevention: ensure the estimator sees every room, closet, garage, attic, and storage area during the survey. Walk through the home together and point out areas that might be missed. The more thorough the original survey, the less likely a supplemental estimate.