How do I read a moving quote line by line?

Add every line yourself, top to bottom. A paperwork fee ("binding estimate fee", "booking fee", "administrative fee") can sit between two discounts and cancel them out.

Find the company type in the fine print. "Broker" or "not a motor carrier" means they sell your move to a company you haven't met; ask who the carrier is and check its USDOT number.

Find the delivery promise. "Up to 30 business days" or "first available date" is a window, not a date; ask for a latest delivery date in writing on the order for service.

Check the deposit and payment terms. A large deposit, a non-refundable one, or cash or money order at delivery are warning signs. Pay by credit card.

Compare their volume or weight with your own count. A quote built on less than you own grows on pickup day; anything you forgot can trigger a new estimate before loading.

Source: FMCSA, 49 CFR Part 375 (estimates, order for service); FMCSA Protect Your Move · Checked October 2026

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