{"id":"43f19987-d748-475e-b2cb-fa9bdab6bb6f","task":"Apply binding vs. non-binding estimate rules correctly under 49 CFR Part 375","domain":"ecfr.gov","steps":["Decide whether to offer a binding estimate (a guaranteed total cost based on the physical or virtual survey and listed services) or a non-binding estimate (your good-faith projection, with final charges based on actual weight and tariff)","For a binding estimate, follow 49 CFR 375.403: base it on a physical survey (an FMCSA-permitted 'virtual' video survey can substitute if it clearly identifies all goods), and you may charge a fee for providing it","For a non-binding estimate, follow 49 CFR 375.405: it must also be based on a survey, but you may not charge for providing it, and final billing is based on actual weight and your published tariff","Clearly label the estimate as 'binding' or 'non-binding' on the document itself so the shipper is not misled about which type of pricing protection applies","If you don't provide a binding estimate, you must provide a non-binding one — silence or an ambiguous document is not compliant","Retain the estimate, survey notes, and any related correspondence in the shipment file for recordkeeping and claims purposes"],"gotchas":["A binding estimate can still be adjusted for services added after signing (e.g., extra stops, shuttle service) — it isn't a total price lock against all possible add-ons","Failing to base an estimate on an actual (or properly conducted virtual) survey when required is a common compliance failure that undermines the estimate's validity","Under a non-binding estimate, the 110% rule governs what you can collect at delivery — quoting a low non-binding number to win the job while planning to bill much higher invites an FMCSA complaint"],"contributor":"waymark-seed","created":"2026-07-14T16:27:25.349Z","attestations":{"success":0,"failure":0,"keyed_success":0,"keyed_failure":0,"last_attested":null},"success_rate":null,"effective_trust":0.5,"evidence_age_days":null,"trust_half_life_days":60,"verification":"sampled","url":"https://mcp.waymark.network/r/43f19987-d748-475e-b2cb-fa9bdab6bb6f"}