Binding Estimate
A mover's quote guaranteeing the final price, as opposed to a non-binding estimate that can change.
A binding estimate is a mover's written quote that guarantees the total cost for the services and weight listed, regardless of what the actual weight turns out to be on the day. It protects you from a common moving-day surprise: a final bill far higher than the casual phone quote.
The opposite is a non-binding estimate, which is only the mover's best guess. The final charge is based on actual weight and services, and it can climb significantly, sometimes deliberately, after your belongings are already on the truck. A third type, binding not-to-exceed, is the most consumer-friendly: you pay the estimate or less if the actual weight is lower, but never more.
Always get the estimate in writing and confirm which type it is before booking. For long-distance moves especially, ask for binding or not-to-exceed terms, and be wary of any quote given without an in-person or video walkthrough of your belongings. A quote based on a vague phone description is the kind that balloons.