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How estimates are done
SELECTING A MOVER: Movers transporting household goods in North Carolina must be issued a certificate from the commission, NCUC (North Carolina Utilities Commission). The certificate or "C" number must be clearly displayed in any advertising, on the Estimated Cost of Services form, and on the Bill of Lading. To determine whether or not the mover has a certificate, you can call the Commission at 919/733.4036 or refer to the list of regulated transportation companies shown on the Commission's website (www.ncuc.net).
ESTIMATES: Movers are required to give you a written estimate of the cost of your move if you request one. There is no charge for the estimate. For moves within North Carolina, there are three types of estimates: non-binding, binding guaranteed, and binding not to exceed. The estimates must clearly describe the shipment of all services to be performed and appear on forms approved by the commission. Your mover is not required to provide an estimate if you request the estimate less than five business days prior to your move or if the total weight of the move is less than 500 lbs.
NON-BINDING: A non-binding estimate shows the approximate charges which will be accessed for the services identified in the estimate. At the time of the delivery the mover will expect payment of the actual charges. However, you may request delivery of the shipment upon of an amount not to exceed 110% of the estimated charges. You will be billed for the balance of the charges which should be paid within 30 days of the date of delivery of your household goods.
BINDING GUARANTEED: A binding guaranteed estimate is fully binding on the mover as long as you do not request additional, different or fewer services than those initially specified in the estimate. If any additional services are performed by the mover at your request which are not covered in the binding guaranteed estimates, additional charges will apply and be listed on an addendum to the estimate.
BINDING NOT-TO-EXCEED: A binding not to exceed estimate specifies a guaranteed maximum charge for the move. After the move has been completed, all charges will be calculated. If the actual charges are less than the estimate, the actual charges will apply. If the actual charges are greater than the estimate, the estimated charges will apply. If any additional services are performed by the mover at your request which are not covered in the binding not-to-exceed estimate, additional charges will apply and be listed on an addendum to the estimate.
HOURLY RATED SHIPMENTS: The commission regulations provide that moves of 35 miles or less be billed at hourly rates. Remember that these hourly rates are maximum rates, and you and the mover are allowed to negotiate moving rates which are lower than the established maximum rates. The "clock starts when the movers arrive at your home and ends when all services at the destination have been completed. A charge for travel time may be assessed. Time will be rounded up to the nearest quarter hour.
Unless arrangements are made in advance, only cash, certified check, money order, or travelers check will be accepted for payment at time of delivery of your household goods. Most movers do not accept personal checks and many do not have the ability to process credit or debit cards. Check with your mover to find out what you need to know about paying for your move.
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