Moving out: estimates, rights and decluttering

Fact-checked · Sourced · Dated Last verified Oct 21, 2026 Sources

Get rid of what you won't move before the estimate, since size and weight drive the price. Then get the estimate in writing. Binding vs non-binding mover estimates (FMCSA rules), plus how to get rid of what you're not taking.^[1]

Independent guide, not a government website. Confirm with your city or the linked official source before acting; rules and fees change.

What do you need to know?

Interstate mover estimates (FMCSA)

Movers must give a written estimate for every shipment. A verbal 'rate quote' isn't an estimate.^[1]
If you're within 50 miles of the mover, the estimate must be based on a physical survey (you can waive this in writing).^[1]
Binding estimate: you can't be required to pay more than the estimate at delivery for the listed items and services.^[2]
Non-binding: be prepared to pay 10% more than the estimate at delivery.^[1]
Charges for 'impracticable operations' due at delivery can't exceed 15% of other charges due.^[1]

Declutter before the estimate

Mattress: check your city's free bulky pickup and bag rules.^[3]
Fridges and A/Cs need refrigerant handling (see Appliances).^[4]
Couches and furniture: see the item guides.^[5]

Storage

Compare unit size, climate control, access hours and contract terms in writing.^[6]
We don't publish storage prices we can't source.^[6]

📦 Move-out checklists by city: what to toss, donate, sell and drop off →

Mattress city guides Couches Furniture Appliances

FAQ

Can a mover charge more than a binding estimate?

Not at delivery for the listed items and services, except for added services you request and impracticable-operation charges (capped at 15% due at delivery). Source: FMCSA.^[6]

Sources (6 official pages, checked Oct 21, 2026)

California (2 sources)
1. City of San Diego (Clean SD), “Cost of Service FAQ (PDF).” https://cleangreensd.org/documents/SD_COS_FAQ_Factsheet_English_FINAL_2025-02-20.pdf (PDF). Checked Oct 21, 2026.
2. LA Sanitation & Environment, “Schedule a Bulky Item Pickup.” https://sanitation.lacity.gov/services/schedule-bulky-item-pickup. Checked Oct 21, 2026.
District of Columbia (1 source)
1. DC Department of Public Works, “Bulk Trash Collection.” https://dpw.dc.gov/service/bulk-trash-collection-0. Checked Oct 21, 2026.
Oregon (1 source)
1. City of Portland, “Bulky waste collection rates.” https://www.portland.gov/bps/garbage-recycling/bulky-waste. Checked Oct 21, 2026.
Pennsylvania (1 source)
1. City of Philadelphia, “Streets Dept. Regulations (PDF).” https://www.phila.gov/media/20240307174251/department-of-streets-regulations-20240227.pdf (PDF). Checked Oct 21, 2026.
National, federal & multi-state (1 source)
1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “Estimating Charges (Subpart D).” https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/how-to/subpartD. Checked Oct 21, 2026.

Each numbered citation [n] above links to its source. Last checked Oct 21, 2026. Rules change, so confirm before you set anything out.

Other sections

Mattresses Junk removal Dumpsters Junk cars Moving & storage Appliances Hazardous Map Agency contacts

Pick your state

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