California Moving Estimates: The Not-to-Exceed Price Explained
California's moving rules cap what you can be charged, but only if the paperwork is right. Here's what to look for before the truck shows up.
By Fast Easy Moving Editors · Updated
The Max 4 tariff still sets the rules
Moves within California are governed by the Maximum Rate Tariff 4, known as Max 4, effective January 1, 2021. State law keeps it in force until BHGS adopts its own regulations, so it's still the rulebook in 2026.
No estimates by phone or online
A California mover can only give you a written estimate after a visual inspection of what's being moved. A price quoted over the phone or through a web form, sight unseen, isn't a valid estimate under Max 4. That's also one of the most common setups for a bait-and-switch.
The not-to-exceed price
Your Agreement for Moving Services must show a not-to-exceed price, and it can't be preprinted. Once you pay that amount plus any change orders you signed, the mover has to unload your goods. If you were overcharged, the mover must refund the difference within 10 days.
If you got the written estimate at least three days before the move, you pay the lower of the estimate or the actual charges at the mover's rates.
How hourly moves are billed
- Moves of 100 miles or less can be billed by the hour or by distance. Moves over 100 miles must be billed by distance.
- Hourly time covers loading, unloading and double the drive time between origin and destination.
- Time is rounded to the nearest quarter hour.
- Any minimum charge must be written on your Agreement for Moving Services.
When the paperwork is wrong, rates drop
If the mover leaves required terms off the Agreement or doesn't deliver it on time, Max 4 limits its charges to 65 percent of the maximum rates. That's one reason to read the Agreement before the crew starts, not after.
The booklet you should receive
Before the move, the mover must give you the booklet "Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods (within California)," and you sign that you received it. A mover that skips this owes you $100. For moves booked three or more days ahead, you should also get the Agreement and an "Important Notice About Your Move."
Common questions
- Can a California mover charge more than the not-to-exceed price?
- Not for the services in the agreement. You owe the not-to-exceed price plus any change orders you signed, and the mover must unload once that's paid.
- Is a phone estimate from a mover valid in California?
- No. Under the Max 4 tariff, a written estimate requires a visual inspection of the goods being moved.
Keep reading
In San Diego County? See our city guides for local permits and utilities.
Sources
Last checked October 2026.