Ohio Moving Estimates: Binding, Nonbinding or Not-to-Exceed?

By James Brazil

James Brazil lives in Mérida, Mexico. He founded Swift Agent Sites and studied Classics at the University of Mississippi.

Published 12 November 2026 · Updated 12 November 2026

For a move within Ohio, a PUCO-certified mover can give you one of three kinds of estimate. A nonbinding estimate can go up or down. A binding estimate is the price. A guaranteed-not-to-exceed estimate sets a ceiling, and you pay that or less. The estimate has to name its type, in writing, unless the move is tiny or very soon.

What are the three types of estimate?

Ohio Administrative Code 4901:2-19-08 sets them out:

• Nonbinding. An approximate cost. Your final bill is based on the mover's tariff and the services actually performed, so it can be higher or lower than the estimate. The form has to say so on its face in bold or contrasting color.
• Binding. Once you sign, both you and the mover are bound to the price for the goods and services listed.
• Guaranteed-not-to-exceed. You pay the lower of the maximum on the estimate or the charges under the mover's tariff. If the move goes faster than expected, you pay less.

For many households, a not-to-exceed estimate is the most comfortable. You get a ceiling and still benefit if the job runs short.

When can a mover skip the written estimate?

Only in narrow cases. Estimates must be in writing, on paper or electronically, in plain English, with two exceptions for nonbinding estimates:

• You ask for the estimate five days or less before the move.
• The total is $500 or less.

Binding and not-to-exceed estimates can only be oral if the total is $500 or less. So for a typical apartment or house move, expect a written estimate. If a mover won't put the price in writing, that tells you something.

What does every Ohio moving estimate have to include?

The rule lists the contents. Check for these before you sign:

• The mover's name, address and PUCO certificate number.
• The name and signature of the person who prepared it, and the date.
• The estimate type.
• Your name and address, and the origin and destination. If pricing is mileage based, the miles.
• A description of the shipment, every service, and every charge.
• Estimated weight, if pricing is by weight.
• Storage costs, if any.
• Planned pickup and delivery dates.
• Your reimbursement options for loss or damage, and any deductible you agree to.
• The total estimated cost.
• Accepted payment methods at delivery.
• A consumer rights statement about claims and PUCO's phone number.
• A signature line stating that by accepting, you're entering a contract with the mover.

The rule also says no tariff provision or bill of lading term is binding on you unless it was disclosed in the estimate. If it wasn't written there, you shouldn't be surprised by it later.

Does the mover have to see your stuff first?

For a nonbinding estimate, yes, unless you waive it. The estimator has to do a visual inspection of your goods before giving it. The mover can charge a reasonable fee for the inspection if it tells you first, and it has to credit that fee toward the move if you accept.

You can waive the inspection by personally signing a waiver on the estimate. Think twice before you do. Inspections catch the piano in the basement and the garage full of tools that turn a four-hour job into eight.

What happens if you add things on moving day?

This is where bills creep. If you add items or services that weren't in the original estimate, the mover can either honor the original estimate or write an addendum pricing the extras before loading or unloading them. The addendum has to meet the same rules as the estimate.

If the truck is loaded and no new estimate was signed, the rule treats that as both of you reaffirming the original estimate. If you're not there to sign, the mover has to explain the addendum by phone and note "telephone authorization received."

So walk the house with the crew lead before loading starts. Point out anything that wasn't on the estimate and get it priced then.

Can the mover ask for a deposit?

Yes, on binding and not-to-exceed estimates. The rule allows a deposit when you accept. Ask how much, how it's applied and what happens to it if you cancel.

How should you compare estimates from different movers?

Line them up by type first. A low nonbinding number and a higher binding one aren't really comparable, because the nonbinding total can move. Then compare what each one includes: packing, materials, stairs, long carries, and how many workers and hours they planned.

FAQ

What's the difference between a binding and a not-to-exceed moving estimate in Ohio?

A binding estimate is the price you pay. A not-to-exceed estimate is a cap. You pay the cap or the tariff charges, whichever is less.

Can an Ohio mover charge more than a nonbinding estimate?

Yes. Nonbinding estimates can go up or down, because the final bill follows the mover's tariff and actual services.

Is a phone estimate allowed in Ohio?

Only for small moves of $500 or less, or nonbinding estimates requested five days or less before the move.

Do I have to pay for an in-home estimate?

A mover may charge a reasonable, disclosed inspection fee for a nonbinding estimate, but it has to credit it to your move if you accept.

Next step

Gather two or three written estimates of the same type so you can compare fairly. If you're coordinating a move with a home closing, ask your licensed local agent how much slack to build in between closing day and the moving date.

Sources: Ohio Administrative Code 4901:2-19-08, estimates by the carrier; PUCO, know your rights when hiring a moving company.