NON-BINDING
ESTIMATES OF APPROXIMATE COST
The
mover is not permitted to charge for giving a non-binding
estimate.
A
non-binding estimate is not a bid or contract. It
is provided by the mover to give you a general idea
of the cost of the move, but it does not bind the
mover to the estimated cost. Furthermore, it is not
a guarantee that the final cost will not be more than
the estimate. The actual cost will be in accordance
with the mover's published tariffs. All movers are
legally obligated to collect no more and no less than
the charges shown in their tariffs regardless of prior
rate quotations contained in non-binding estimates.
The charges contained in the tariffs are essentially
the same for the same weight shipment moving the same
distance. If you obtain differing (non-binding) estimates
from different movers, you will be obligated to pay
only the amount specified in the tariff. Therefore,
a non-binding estimate may have no effect on the amount
you will have to pay.
Non-binding
estimates must be in writing and clearly describe
the shipment and all services provided. Any time a
mover provides such an estimate the amount of the
charges estimated must be on the order for service
and bill of lading relating to your shipment. If you
are given a non-binding estimate, do not sign or accept
the order for service or bill of lading unless the
amount estimated is entered on each form when prepared
by the mover.
If
you are given a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot
require you to pay more than the amount of the original
estimate, plus 10 percent, at time of delivery. You
will then have at least 30 days after delivery to
pay any remaining charges.