Whether your estimates are from repair facilities or insurance companies, it is very difficult to compare them unless the damages are very minor. The main reason is than an estimate may only be written for the actual damage that can be seen and not the hidden damage (that damage that is only visible once the damaged outer parts are removed) This estimate is called a preliminary estimate.
The important thing is that all hidden damage is identified, submitted to the insurance company, and repaired to your satisfaction.
Posted in: Collision and Insurance Claims