Estimates
Although movers are not required to give estimates, most movers
do provide estimates when requested. There are two types of
estimates, binding and non-binding.
Binding Estimates of Total Cost
The mover may charge you for providing a binding estimate which
must clearly describe the shipment and all services provided
When you receive a binding estimate, you cannot be required to
pay any more than the amount of the estimate. However, if you
have requested the mover to provide more services than those
included in the estimate, such as destination charges (i.e. long
carry charges, shuttle charges, extra stair carry charges, or
elevator charges) often not know at origin, the mover may demand
full payment for those added services at time of delivery.
To be effective, a binding estimate must be in writing and a
copy must be made available to you before your move.
If you agree to a binding estimate, you are responsible for
paying the charges due by cash, certified check, traveler's
check, or bank check (one drawn by a bank on itself and signed
by an officer of the bank) at time of delivery unless the mover
agrees before you move to extend credit or to accept payment by
charge card. If you are unable to pay at the time the shipment
is delivered, the mover may place you shipment in storage at
your expense until the charges are paid.
Non-Binding Estimates of Approximate Cost
The mover is not permitted to charge for giving a non-binding
estimate.
A non-binding estimate is not a bid or contract. It is provided
by the mover to give you a general idea of the cost of the move,
but it does not bind the mover to the estimated cost.
Furthermore, it is not a guarantee that the final cost will be
more than the estimate. The actual cost will be in accordance
with the mover's published tariffs. All movers are legally
obligated to collect no more and no less than the charges shown
in their tariffs regardless of prior rate quotations contained
in non-binding estimates. The charges contained in the tariffs
are essentially the same for the same weight shipment moving the
same distance. If you obtain differing (non-boding) estimates
from different movers, you will obligated to pay only the amount
specified in the tariff. Therefore, a non-binding estimate may
have no effect on the amount you have to pay.
Non-binding estimates must be in writing and clearly describe
the shipment and all services provided. Any time a mover
provides such an estimate the amount of the charges estimated
must be on the order for service and bill of lading relating to
your shipment. If you are given a non-binding estimate, do not
sign or accept the order for service or bill of lading unless
the amount estimated is is entered on each form when prepared by
the mover.
If you are giving a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot
require you to pay more that the amount of the original
estimate, plus 10 percent, at time of delivery. You will then
have at least 30 days after delivery to pay any remaining
charges.
If you request the mover to provide more services than those
included in the estimate, the mover may demand full payment for
those added services at the time of delivery.
Space Reservations, Expedited Service, Exclusive Use of a
Vehicle and Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery
It is customary for movers to offer price and service options.
The total cost of your move may be increased if you want
additional or special services. Before you agree to have your
shipment moved under a bill of lading providing special service,
you should have a clear understanding with the mover what the
additional cost will be. You should always consider that you may
find other movers who can provide the service you require
without requiring that you pay the additional charges.
One service option is a SPACE RESERVATION. If you agree to have
your shipment transported under a space reservation agreement,
you are required to pay for a minimum number of cubic feet of
space in the moving van regardless of how much space in the van
is actually occupied by your shipment.
A second service option is EXPEDITED SERVICE to aid shippers who
must have their shipments transported on or between specific
dates which the mover could not ordinarily agree to do in its
normal operations.
Another customary service option is EXCLUSIVE USE OF A VEHICLE.
If for any reason you desire or require that your shipment be
moved by itself on the mover's truck or trailer, most movers
will provide such service.
Still another service option is GUARANTEED SERVICE ON OR BETWEEN
AGREED DATES. You enter into an agreement with the mover that
provides for your shipment to be picked up, transported to
destination an delivered on specific guaranteed dates. If the
mover fails to provide the service as agreed, you are entitled
to be compensated at a predetermined amount or a daily rate (per
diem) regardless of the expense you actually might have incurred
as a result of the mover's failure to perform.
Before requesting or agreeing to any of these price and service
options, be sure to ask the mover's representatives about the
final costs you will be required to pay.
Transport of Shipments on Two or More Vehicles
Although all movers try to move each shipment on one truck it
becomes necessary at times to divide a shipment between two or
more trucks. This may occur if the mover had underestimated the
cubic feet of space required for your shipment, with the
consequence that it will not all fit on the first truck. The
remainder or "leave behind" will be picked up by a second truck
at a later time and may arrive at the destination at a later
time than the first truck. When this occurs, your transportation
charges will be determined as if the entire shipment moved on
one truck.
If it is important for you to avoid the inconvenience of a
"leave behind," be sure that your estimate includes an accurate
calculation of the cubic feet required for your shipment. Ask
your estimator to use a "Table of Measurements" form in making
this calculation. Consider asking for a binding estimate, which
is more likely to be conservative with regard to cubic feet than
non-binding estimates. If the mover offers the service, consider
making a space reservation for the necessary amount of space
plus some margin of error. In any case, it is prudent to
"prioritize" your goods in advance of the move so that the more
essential items will be loaded on the first truck if some are
left behind.
Order For Service
Moving companies are required to prepare an order for service on
every shipment transported for an individual shipper. You are
entitled to a copy of the order for service when it is prepared.
The order for service is not a contract. Should your move be
canceled or delayed or if you decide not to use the mover, you
should promptly cancel the order.
Should there be any change in the dates on which you and the
mover agreed that your shipment will be picked up and delivered,
or any change in the non-binding estimate, the mover may prepare
a written change to the order for service. The written change
should be attached to the order for service. You and the mover
must sign the order fir service.
Bill Of Lading
The bill of lading is the contract between you and the mover.
The mover is required by law to prepare a bill of lading for
every shipment it transports. The information on the bill of
lading is required to be the same information shown on the order
for service. The driver who loads your shipment must give you a
copy of the bill of lading before he loads your furniture.
It is your responsibility to read the bill of lading before
accepting it.
The bill of lading requires the mover to provide the service you
have requested, and you must pay the charges for the service.
The bill of lading is an important document. Do not lose or
misplace your copy. Have it available until your shipment is
delivered, all charges are paid and all claims, if any, are
settled.
Inventory
At the time the mover's driver loads your shipment, he or she,
although not required to do so, usually inventories your
shipment listing any damage or unusual wear. The purpose is to
make a record of the condition of each item. If the driver does
not make an inventory, you should make one yourself.
After completing the inventory, the driver will sign each page
and ask you to sign each page. It is important before signing
that you make sure that the inventory lists every item in your
shipment and that the entries regarding the condition of each
item are correct. You have the right to note any disagreement.
When the shipment is delivered, if an item is missing or
damaged, your ability to recover from the mover for any loss or
damage may depend on the notations made.
The driver will give you a copy of each page of the inventory.
Attach the complete copy of the inventory to your copy of the
bill of lading. It is your receipt for the goods.
At the time your shipment is delivered, it is your
responsibility to check the items delivered against the items
listed on your inventory. If new damage is discovered, make a
record of it on the inventory form. Call the damage to the
attention of the driver and request that a record of the damage
be made on the driver's copy of the inventory.
After the complete shipment is unloaded, the driver will request
that you sign the driver's copy of the inventory to show that
you received the items listed. Do not sign until you have
assured yourself that it is accurate and that proper notations
have been entered regarding any missing or damaged items. When
you sign the inventory, you are giving the driver a receipt for
your goods.
Weight
Shipment Subject to Minimum Weight or Volume Charges
Movers usually have a minimum weight or volume charge for
transporting a shipment. Usually the minimum is the charge for
transporting a shipment of at least 1,000 pounds (454
kilograms).
If your shipment appears to weigh less than the mover's minimum
weight, the mover is required to advise you on the order for
service of the minimum cost before agreeing to transport the
shipment. Should the mover fail to advise you on the minimum
charges and your shipment is less than the minimum weight, the
final charges must be based on the actual weight instead of the
minimum weight.
Determining the Weight of Your Shipment
If charges are to be based upon the weight of your shipment, the
mover is required to weight the shipment. Unless your shipment
weighs less than 1,000 pounds (454 kilograms) and can be weighed
on a warehouse platform scale. The mover is required to
determine the weight of your shipment by one of the following
processes.
Origin Weighing-If your shipment is weighed in the city or area
from which you are moving, the driver is required to weigh the
truck on which the shipment is to be transported before coming
to your residence. This is called the tare weight. At the time
of this first weighing the truck may already be partially loaded
with one or more other shipments. This will not affect the
weight of your shipment. The truck should also contain the pads,
dollies, hand-trucks, ramps, and other equipment normally used
in the transportation of household goods shipments.
After loading, the truck will be weighed again to obtain the
loaded weight, called the gross weight. The net weight of your
shipment is then obtained by subtracting the tare weight from
the gross weight.
Destination Weighing-The mover is also permitted to determine
the weight of your shipment at the destination at the time of
unloading. The fact that a shipment is weighed at the
destination instead of at the origin will not affect the
accuracy of the weight of your shipment. The most important
difference is that the mover will not be able to determine the
exact charges on your shipment before it is unloaded.
Destination weighing is done in reverse of origin weighing.
After arriving in the city or area to which you are moving, the
driver will weigh the truck, with your shipment loaded on it, to
obtain the gross weight before coming to your new residence to
unload. After unloading your shipment, the driver will again
weigh the truck to obtain the tare weight. The net weight of
your shipment then be obtained by subtracting the tare weight
from the gross weight.
Each time a weighing is performed the driver is required to
obtain a weight ticket showing the date and place of weighing
and the weight obtained. The ticket must also have your name and
shipment number entered on it, along with the identification
(ID) numbers of the truck. The ticket must be signed by the
person who performed the weighing. If both the empty (tare) and
loaded (gross) weighings are performed on the same scale, the
record of both weighings may be entered on one weight ticket.
At the time the mover gives you the freight bill to collect the
charges, a copy of every weight ticket relating to you shipment
must accompany your copy of the freight bill.
You have the right to observe every weighing. The mover is
required to inform you of the specific location of each scale
that will be used and to allow you a reasonable opportunity to
be present. If you desire to observe either or both of the
weighings, you should tell mover at the time the order for
service is prepared or, in any event, before the date of your
move. This will enable the mover to contact you before the
weighing to advise you of the location of the scale.
Reweighing of Shipments
If your shipment is weighed at origin and you agree with the
mover that you will pay the charges at time of delivery, the
mover is required to give you written notice of the weight and
charges on your shipment before commencing to unload at your
destination residence. If you believe that the weight is not
accurate, you have the right to request that the shipment be
reweighed before unloading.
The mover is not permitted to charge for the weighing. It the
weight of your shipment at the time of the reweigh is different
from the weight determined at origin, the mover must recompute
the charges based on the rewiegh weight.
Before requesting a reweigh, you may find it to your advantage
to estimate the weight of your shipment using the following
method:
Count the number of items in your shipment. Usually there will
be either 30 or 40 items listed on each page of the inventory.
For example, if there are 30 items per page and your inventory
consists of four complete pages and a fifth page with 15 items
listed, the total number of items will be 135. If an automobile
is listed on the inventory do not include that item in the count
of the total items.
Subtract the weight of any automobile included in your shipment
from the total weight of your shipment. If the automobile was
not weighed separately, it's weight can be found on its title or
license receipt.
Divide the number of items in your shipment into the weight. If
the average weight resulting from this exercise ranges between
35 and 45 pounds (16 and 20 kilograms) per article. It is
unlikely that a reweigh will prove beneficial to you and could
result in your paying higher charges.
Experience has shown that the average shipment of household
goods will weigh about 40 pounds (18 kilograms) per item. If a
shipment contains a large number of heavy items, such as cartons
of books, boxes of tools or heavier than average furniture, the
average weight per item may be 45 pounds (20 kilograms) or more.
Picking Up and Delivering Shipments on the Agreed Dates
You and your mover must reach an agreement as to when your
shipment is to be picked up and delivered. It is your
responsibility to determine on what date, or between what dates,
you need to have the shipment picked up and on what date or
between what dates, you require delivery. It is the movers
responsibility to tell you if the service can be provided on or
between those dates or, if not, on what other dates the service
can be provided
In the process of reaching an agreement with a mover, it may be
necessary for you to alter your moving and travel plans if no
mover can provide service on the specific dates you desire. Do
not agree to have your shipment picked up or delivered "as soon
as possible." The dates or periods of time that you and the
mover agree on should be definite.
Once an agreement is reached, the mover is required to enter
those dates on the order for service and the bill of lading.
Once your goods are loaded, the mover is contractually bound to
provide the service described in the bill of lading. The only
defense for not providing the service on the dates called for is
the "defense of force majeure." This is a legal term which means
that if circumstances which could not have been foreseen and
which are beyond the control of the mover prevent the
performance of the service as agreed to in the bill of lading,
the mover is not responsible for damages resulting from the
nonperformance.
If, after an order for service is prepared, the mover is unable
to make pickup or delivery on the agreed dates, the mover is
required to notify you by telephone, telegram or in person. The
mover must at that time tell you when your shipment can be
picked up or delivered. I for any reason you are unable or
unwilling to accept pickup or delivery on the dates named by the
mover, you should attempt to reach agreement on an alternate
date.
The establishment of a delayed pickup or delivery date does not
relieve the mover from liability for damages resulting from the
failure to provide services as agreed. However, when you are
notified of alternate delivery dates it is your responsibility
to be available to accept delivery on the dates specified. If
you are not available and willing to accept delivery, the mover
has the right to place your shipment in storage at your expense
or hold the shipment on its truck and assess additional charges.
If after pickup of your shipment, you request the mover to
change the delivery date, most mover will agree to do so
providing your request will not result in unreasonable delay to
their equipment or interfere with another customers move.
However, the mover is not required to consent to amended
delivery dates and has the right to place your shipment in
storage at your expense if you are unwilling or unable to accept
delivery on the date agreed to in the bill of lading.
If the mover fails to pick up and deliver your shipment on the
dates entered on the bill of lading and you have expenses you
otherwise would not have had, you may be able to recover those
expenses from the mover. That is what is called an inconvenience
or delay claim. Should a mover refuse to honor such a claim and
you continue to believe that you are entitled to be paid
damages, you may sue the mover. The FHWA has no authority to
order the mover to pay such claims.
While it is hoped that your shipment will not be delayed, you
should consider this possibility and find out before you agree
for a mover to transport you shipment what payment you can
expect if the service is delayed through the fault of the mover.
Notification of Charges
You must advise the mover at the time you make the arrangements
for the move if you wish to be notified of the weight and
charges. You are required to give the mover a telephone number
or address at which the notification will be received.
The mover must notify you of the charges at least on 24-hour
weekday prior to the delivery, unless the shipment is to be
delivered the day after pickup. The 24-hour requirement does not
apply when you obtain an estimate of the costs prior to the move
or when the shipment is to be weighed at the destination.
Receipt for Delivery of the Shipment
At the time of delivery, the mover expects you to sign a receipt
for your shipment. This is usually accomplished by having you
sign each page of the mover's copy of the inventory.
Movers are prohibited from having you sign a receipt which
relieves the mover from all liability for loss or damage to the
shipment. Do not sign any receipt which does not provide that
you are signing for your shipment in apparent good condition
except as noted on the shipping documents.
The Movers Liability for Loss and Damage
All moving companies are required to assume liability for the
value of the goods which they transport. However, there are
different levels of liability, and the consumer should be aware
of the amount of protection provided and the charges for each
option.
Basically, most movers offer four different levels of liability
under the terms of their tariff and pursuant to the Surface
Transportation Board's Released Rates Orders which govern the
moving industry.
Option 1: Released Value
This is the most economical protection option available. This
no-additional-cost option provides minimal protection. Under
this option, the mover assumes liability for no more than 60
cents per pound($1.32 per kilogram), per article. Loss or damage
claims are settled based on the pound weight of the article
multiplied by 60 cents (or the kilogram weight multiplied by
$1.32). For example, if a 10-pound (4.54 kilogram) stereo
component, valued at $1,000 were lost or destroyed, the mover
would be liable for no more than $6.00. Obviously the shipper
should think carefully before agreeing to such an arrangement.
There is no extra charge for this minimal protection, but you
must sign a specific statement on the bill of lading agreeing to
it.
Option 2: Declared Value
Under this option, the valuation of your shipment is based on
the total weight of your shipment times $1.25 per pound ($2.75
per kilogram). For example, a 4000-pound shipment (1814.4
kilograms) would have a maximum liability value of $5,000.00.
Any loss or damage claim under this option is settled based on
the depreciated value of the lost or damaged item(s) up to the
maximum liability value based on the weight of the entire
shipment. Under this option, if you shipped a 10-pound (4.54
kilogram) stereo component that originally cost $1,000, the
mover would be liable for up to $1,000, based on the depreciated
value of the item.
Unless you specifically agree to other arrangements, the mover
is required to assume liability for the entire shipment based on
this option. Also, the mover is entitled to charge $7.00 for
each $1,000 (or fraction thereof) of liability assumed for
shipments transported under this option. In the example above,
the valuation charge for a shipment valued at $5,000 would be
$35.00. Under this option, your shipment is protected based on
its depreciated value, and the mover is entitled to charge you a
fee for this extra protection.
Option 3: Lump Sum Value
Under this option, which is similar to Option 2, if the value of
your shipment exceeds $1.25 per pound ($2.75 per kilogram) times
the weight of your shipment, you may obtain additional liability
protection from the mover. You do this be declaring a specific
dollar value for your shipment. The amount you declare must
exceed $1.25 per pound ($2.75 per kilogram) times the weight of
you shipment. The amount of value that you declare is still
subject to the same valuation charge ($7.00 per $1,000) as
described in Option 2. For example, if you declare that your
4,000-pound (1814.4 kilogram) shipment is worth $10,000 (instead
of the $5,000 under Option 2), the mover will charge you $7.00
for each $1,000 of declared value, or $70.00, for this increased
level of liability. If you ship article that are unusually
expensive, you may wish to declare this extra value. You must
make this declaration in writing on the bill of lading.
Option 4: Full Value Protection
Many movers offer a fourth level of added-value protection,
often referred to as "full value protection" or "full
replacement value." If you elect to purchase full value
protection, article that are lost, damaged or destroyed will be
either replaced, repaired with like items or a cash settlement
will be made for the current market replacement value,
regardless of the age of the lost or damaged item. Unlike the
other options, depreciation of the lost or damaged item is not a
factor in determining replacement value when the shipment is
moved under full value protection.
The cost for full value protection is approximately $8.50 per
$1,000 of declared value; however, the minimum value declared
must be equal to the the weight of the shipment multiplied by
$3.50 per pound ($7.70 per kilogram), which is further subject
to a minimum declaration of $21,000.
For example, if your shipment weighs 5,000 pounds (2,268
kilograms), the minimum declared value must be at least $21,000.
The exact cost for full protection may vary mover and may be
further subject to various deductible levels of liability which
may reduce you cost. Ask your mover for the details of its
specific plan.
Under these four options, movers are permitted to limit their
liability for loss or damage to articles of extraordinary value,
unless you specifically list these articles on the shipping
documents. An article of extraordinary value is any item whose
value exceeds $100 dollars per pound ($220 per kilogram). Ask
your mover for a complete explanation of this limitation before
you move. It is your responsibility to study this provision
carefully and to make the necessary declaration.
These optional levels of liability are not insurance agreements
which are governed by state insurance laws, but instead are
authorized under Released Rates Ordered of the Surface
Transportation Board of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
In addition to these options, some carriers may also offer to
sell, or procure for you, separate liability insurance from a
third-party insurance company when you release your shipment for
transportation at the minimum released valuation of 60 cents per
pound ($1.32 per kilogram) per article (Option 1). This is not
valuation coverage governed by Federal law, but optional
insurance that is regulated under State law. If you purchase
this separate coverage, in the event of loss or damage which is
the responsibility of the mover, the mover is liable only for an
amount not exceeding 60 cents per pound ($1.32 per kilogram) per
article, and the balance of the loss is recoverable from the
insurance company up to the amount of insurance purchased. The
mover's representative can advise you of the availability of
such liability insurance and the cost.
If you purchase liability insurance from or through the mover,
the mover is required to issue a policy or other written record
of the purchase and to provide you with a copy of the policy or
other document at the time of purchase. If the mover fails to
comply with this requirement, the mover becomes fully liable for
any claim for loss or damage attributed to its negligence.
Complaints and Inquiries About the Mover's Service
All movers are expected to respond promptly to complaints or
inquiries from their customers. Should you have a complaint or
question about your move, you should first attempt to obtain a
satisfactory response from the mover's local agent, the sales
representative who handled the arrangements for your move, or
the driver assigned to your shipment.
If for any reason you are unable to obtain a satisfactory
response from one of these persons, you should then contact the
mover's principal office. When you make such a call, be sure to
have available your copy of all the documents relating to the
move. Particularly important is the number assigned to your
shipment by the mover.
Interstate movers are also required to offer neutral arbitration
as a means of resolving consumer disputes involving loss or
damage on collect on delivery (COD) shipments. Your mover is
required to provide you with information regarding its
participation in an arbitration program.
All interstate moving companies are required to maintain a
complaint and inquiry procedure to assist their customers. At
the time you make the arrangements for your move, you should ask
the movers representatives for a description of the movers
procedure, the telephone number to be used to contact the
carrier and whether the mover will pay for such telephone calls.
Payments
Payment of the Transportation Charges
At the time for payment of the transportation charges, the mover
is required to give you a freight bill identifying the service
provided and the charge for each service. It is customary for
most movers to use a copy of the bill of lading as a freight
bill; however, some movers use an entirely separate document for
this purpose.
Except in those instances where a shipment is moving on a
binding estimate, the freight bill must specifically identify
each service performed, the rate per unit for each service, and
the total charges for each service. Do not accept or pay a
freight bill which does not contain this information.
If your shipment was transported on a collect on delivery (COD)
basis, you will be expected to pay the total charges appearing
on the freight bill at the time of delivery unless the mover
provided a non-binding estimate of approximate cost and the
total charges for the services included in the estimate exceed
110 percent of the estimated charges.
It is customary for mover to provide in their tariffs the
freight charges must be paid in cash, by certified check,
traveler's check, or bank check (one drawn by a bank on itself
and signed by an officer of the bank). When this requirement
exists, the mover will not accept personal checks. At the time
you make arrangements for your move, you should ask the mover
about the form of payment that is acceptable.
Some movers permit payment of freight charges by use of a charge
card. However, do not assume because you have a nationally
recognized charge or credit card that it will be acceptable for
payment. Ask the mover at the time the arrangements are made.
If you do not pay the transportation charges at the time of
delivery the mover has the right under the bill of lading to
refuse to deliver your goods. The mover may place them in
storage at your expense until the charges are paid.
If, before the payment of the transportation charges, you
discover an error in the charges, you should attempt to correct
the error with the driver, the mover's local agent, or by
contacting the mover's main office. If an error is discovered
after payment, you should write the mover (the address will be
on the freight bill) explaining the error and request a refund.
Movers customarily check all shipment files and freight bills
after a move has been completed to make sure the charges were
accurate. If an overcharge is found, you will be notified and
refund made. If and undercharge occurred, you will be billed for
the additional charges due.
Payment of the Transportation Charges on Shipments Transported
on Two or More Vehicles
Although all movers try to move each shipment on one truck it
becomes necessary at times to divide a shipment among two or
more trucks. This frequently occurs when an automobile is
included in the shipment and it is transported on a vehicle
specially designed to transport automobiles. When this occurs
your transportation charges are the same as if the entire
shipment moved on one truck.
If your shipment is divided for transportation on two or more
trucks, the mover can require payment for each portion as it is
delivered.
Movers are also permitted, but not required, to delay the
collection of all charges until the entire shipment is
delivered. At the time you make the arrangements for your move,
you should ask the mover about its policies in this respect.
Payment of Transportation Charges on Shipments Lost or Destroyed
in Transit
Mover customarily make every effort to assure that while your
shipment is in their possession for transportation, no items are
lost, damaged or destroyed. However, despite the precautions
taken, articles are sometimes lost or destroyed during the move.
In addition to any money you may recover from the mover to
compensate for lost or destroyed articles, you are also entitled
to recover the transportation charges represented by the portion
of the shipment lost or destroyed.
On shipments with partial loss or destruction of goods, the
transportation charges must be paid. The mover will then return
proportional freight charges at the time loss and damage claims
are processed. Should you entire shipment be lost or destroyed
while in the mover's possession, the mover cannot require you to
pay any of the charges except for the amount you have paid or
agreed to pay for added liability protection. The fact that you
do not pay any transportation charges does not affect any right
you may have to recover reimbursement for the lost or destroyed
articles providing you pay the charges for added liability
protection.
Payment of Transportation Charges on Redirected Shipments
During natural occurrences such as flooding, it is important to
keep in mind that carriers are permitted to reroute as necessary
in order to accomplish pick-ups and deliveries. In such
instances, the predetermined chart mileages provided in the
Mileage Guide would not apply and instead the mileages would be
constructed from the map series based on the actual routes
traveled. The authority for these reroutings is contained in
Section 2 of the bill of lading (Contract Terms and Conditions
of the Uniform Household Goods Bill of Lading).
Filing of Claims for Loss and Damage or Delay and Dispute
Resolution Programs
Should your move result in loss or damage to any of your
property, you have the right to file a claim with the mover to
recover money for such loss or damage.
You nine months following either the date of delivery, or the
date on which the shipment should have been delivered, to file a
claim. However, you should file a claim as soon as possible. If
you fail to file a claim within 120 days following delivery and
later bring a legal action against the mover to recover the
damages, you may not be able to recover your attorney fees even
though you win the court action.
While the Federal Government maintains regulations governing the
processing of loss and damage claims, it cannot resolve these
claims. If you cannot settle a claim with the mover, you may
file a civil action to recover in court. In this connection, you
may obtain the name address of the mover's agent for service of
legal process in your state by contacting the FHWA.
In addition, interstate movers are required to participate in a
Dispute Resolution Program which provides that certain types of
unresolved loss or damage claims must be submitted to a neutral
arbitrator for resolution. You may find submitting your claim to
arbitration under such a program to be a less expensive and more
convenient way to seek recovery of your claim. Movers are
required to advise all COD shipper of the existence and details
of the arbitration program before they accept a shipment to be
transported. If the mover does not provide you with information
about a dispute resolution program before you move, ask him for
the details of the program.
Conclusion
Should you have any questions about your move which are not
answered in this document, do not hesitate to ask the mover's
representative who handled the arrangements for your move, the
driver who transports your shipment, or the movers main office
for additional information.
For further advice or assistance, contract the Federal Highway
Administration:
Licensing & Insurance Division (HIA-30)
Office of Motor Carrier Information Analysis
Federal Highway Administration
400 Virginia Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20024
(202) 358-7027
Points to Remember
Movers may give binding estimates.
Non-binding estimates may not be accurate; actual charges may
often exceed the estimate.
Specify pickup and delivery dates in the order for service.
The Bill of Lading is your contract with the mover...READ IT
CAREFULLY...If you have any questions ask your mover.
Be sure that you understand the extent of your mover's liability
for loss and damage.
You have the right to be present each time your shipment is
weighed.
You may request a reweigh of your shipment.
If you have moved on a non-binding estimate, you should have
enough cash or a certified check to pay the estimated cost of
your move plus 10 percent more at time of delivery.
Unresolved claims for loss or damage may be submitted to
arbitration; ask your mover for details
Glossary of Moving Terminology
Accessorial (Addititonal) Services - services such as packing,
appliance servicing, unpacking, or piano stair carries that you
request to be performed (or are necessary because of landlord
requirements or other special circumstances). Charges for these
services are in addition to the transportation charges.
Advanced Charges - charges for services not performed by the
mover but instead by a professional, craftsman or other third
party at your request. The charges for these services are paid
for by the mover and added to your bill of lading charges.
Agent - a local moving company authorized to act on behalf of a
larger national company.
Appliance Service - preparation of major electrical appliances
to make them safe for shipment.
Bill of Lading - the receipt for your goods and the contract for
their transportation. IT is your responsibility to understand
the bill of lading before you sign it. If you do not agree with
something on the bill of lading, do not sign it until you are
satisfied that it is correct. The bill of lading is an important
document. Don't lose or misplace your copy.
Binding/Non-Binding Estimate - a binding estimate is an
agreement made in advance with the mover that guarantees the
total cost of the move based on the quantities and services
shown on the estimate. A non-binding estimate is the carrier's
approximation of the cost based on the estimated weight of the
shipment and the accessorial services requested. A non-binding
estimate is not binding on the carrier and the final charges
will be based on the actual weight and tariff provisions in
effect.
Carrier - the mover providing transportation of your household
goods.
C.O.D. - transportation for an individual shipper for which
payment is required at the time of delivery at the destination
residence (or warehouse).
Expedited Service - an agreement with the mover to perform
transportation by a set date in exchange for charges based on a
higher minimum weight.
Flight Charge - an extra charge for carrying items up or down
flights of stairs.
Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery Service - an additional level of
service whereby dates of service are guaranteed, with the mover
providing reimbursement for delays. The premium service is often
subject to minimum weight requirements.
High Value Article - items included in a shipment that are
valued at more than $100 per pound.
Inventory - the detailed descriptive list of your household
goods showing the number and condition of each item.
Linehaul Charges - charges for the vehicle transportation
portion of your move. These charges apply in addition to the
additional service charges.
Long Carry - an added charge for carrying articles excessive
distances between the mover's vehicle and your residence.
Order for Service - the document authorizing the mover to
transport your household goods.
Order (Bill of Lading) Number - the number used to identify ad
track your shipment.
Peak Season Rates - higher linehaul charges that are applicable
during the summer months.
Pickup and Delivery Charges - separate transportation charges
applicable for transporting your shipment between the SIT
warehouse and your residence.
Shuttle Service - use of a smaller vehicle to provide service to
residences that are not accessible to the mover's normal, larger
linehaul equipment.
Storage-In-transit (SIT) - temporary warehouse storage of your
shipment pending further transportation, for example, if your
new home isn't quite ready to occupy. You must specifically
request SIT service, which may not exceed a total of 90 days of
storage, and you will be responsible for the added charges for
SIT service, as well as the warehouse handling and final
delivery charges.
Tariff - the mover's required, published price list of rules,
regulations, rates and charges for the performance of interstate
moving services.
Valuation - the degree of "worth" of the shipment. The valuation
charge compensates the mover for assuming a greater degree of
liability than that provided for in the base transportation
charges.
Warehouse Handling - an additional charge applicable each time
SIT service is provided. This charge compensates the mover for
the physical placement and removal of items within the
warehouse.
If you're among thousands of people who have picked up and moved their family
to a new home or a new community, you have fresh memories of some of the ups and
downs or thrills or frustrations of moving.
Drawing from personal experience, I know there are lots of ways to help make
your household move easier and more smooth. Read here for help to get your life,
and your possessions, organized for a peaceful and exciting move.
Make a list.
Write everything down! You'll thank yourself later. Before you pack even one
box, create a simple record keeping system. Create a computer-printed list of
numbers with a space to write the contents. Or have a spiral-bound notebook for
the job. You'll place a number on EVERY box you pack and list the contents on
your list. Don't put the list down unless it's in a place you'll call Packing
Central. This is where you'll find your labels, marking pens, box tape, and
other supplies. When describing the box contents, be specific -- "A-D files" is
better than "files", and "Tulip dishes" rather than "misc. kitchen".
Have plenty of supplies.
Don't make me say this twice-- you'll need LOTS of boxes--probably more boxes
than you think, and having enough boxes will make your life easier! (If you buy
your boxes from a moving company, you can always return unused boxes for a
refund. If you got them free from the grocery, just toss any leftovers.) Have
about 10 boxes set aside to use for last minute items on moving day, such as
bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies. You'll need strong plastic packing
tape to close up the boxes securely. Use unprinted newsprint (newspaper can
stain your items) or packing paper or bubble wrap to wrap and cushion household
good. Again, you'll need lots more supplies than you think, so get extra so the
packing can go smoothly. Return any unused supplies after the truck is packed.
Utilize wardrobe boxes.
These tall boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items such as comforters,
pillows, and blankets, as well as clothes that need to remain hanging. Call your
mover to ask the width of the wardrobe boxes they'll be bringing. Then measure
the clothes in your closets (including coat closets) to see how many wardrobe
boxes you'll need. You can also use them for closet storage boxes, shoe boxes,
and other bulky items such as fabric bolts, large baskets, or gift wrap tubes.
Don't make the boxes too heavy to lift, however. One mover told the story of
someone who put a bowling ball in a wardrobe box! When the box was lifted off
the truck the bottom gave way, sending the bowling ball on a wild ride down the
ramp, across the street to the gutter, then down a hill where it finally came to
rest in a roadside ditch. (Is that a strike or a spare?)
Strategize wardrobe box use.
Moving companies will be happy to deliver boxes ahead of your moving day. Or if
you're doing the move yourself, get things organized as early as possible. A few
days before your move, fill some sturdy handled shopping bags with bulky closet
items such as shoes, sweaters, belts, and jeans. On moving day, fill the bottom
of the wardrobe boxes with some of the shopping bags, then add your hanging
clothing. Pack hanging items tightly so things won't move around and fall off of
hangers. Finally, cover the shoulders of your clothes (a dry cleaning bag works
well), then add a few purses or sweaters on top. You'll have fewer boxes, and
closet items remain together. Also, the shopping bags will make it easier to
retrieve your belongings from the bottoms of a tall wardrobe box.
Color coordinate.
Designate a color for each room in the new home, such as yellow for
kitchen, orange for dining room, etc. Apply colored stickers on the box near the
box number. In your new home. Put a matching sticker on the door to each room.
The movers will know where to put everything when they arrive at the
destination. It's also helpful to post a big sign on the wall in the room where
you want boxes stacked, ("Boxes here please") to keep them out of furniture and
traffic areas.
Keep things together.
Insist on keeping things together when you or the movers are packing boxes. Keep
bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, and extension cords with
appliances. Small, loose parts can be attached to the item they belong to with
tape or placed in small envelopes -- to keep picture hooks with pictures, shelf
brackets with a bookcase, a special wrench and bolts with the wall unit. Keep
larger corresponding items (such as a cable TV cord) in Ziplock bags, and tape
these to the underside or back of the item. As a backup, have a "Parts Box" open
on the kitchen counter and fill it with cables, cords, parts, pieces, brackets,
or nails that are removed from any items of furniture. Keep this box with you,
or mark it well with a rainbow of colored stickers so it can be easily located
on move-in day.
Pack ahead.
Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day. If it's summer,
get your winter clothes out of the way. You don't really need 5 radios or TV's
around your house for the last few days there. Box up your shampoo and extra
toothpaste and live out of a travel cosmetic case for the last week or two. Pare
down cooking utensils and food supplies to bare essentials. Wastebaskets can
also be packed (put things in them!) while you switch to using plastic grocery
bags (hang them on a cabinet door or door handle to collect trash.)
Consolidate cleaning supplies.
If you must clean your old place after moving out, put together a kit of basic
cleaning supplies and rags. Clean anything possible ahead of time (the inside of
kitchen cupboards, the oven, windows, etc.), and if possible, vacuum each room
as movers empty it.
Use your luggage.
Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets, towels, and paper goods.
Even for local moves you'll be able to quickly spot your navy suitcase holding
your favorite sweaters, whereas "Box #189" might remain elusive for days.
Safeguard valued items.
It's a good idea to keep valuable possessions, such as silverware, collections,
or antiques, with you. If you have a long move and no room in your car, bury the
items in a box titled "Misc. from kitchen pantry". Either way, check your
homeowner's insurance to see how you are covered during the move, and if you
need additional insurance from the mover. Also, find out what paperwork
(receipts, appraisals, and photos) you might need to file a claim in case of
loss.
Keep important papers with you.
Your list of "important" papers might include: birth certificates, school
records, mover estimates, new job contacts, utility company numbers, recent bank
records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers, realtor info, maps, and
more. Don't leave these with the mover. Keep them with you!
Personal boxes.
Use brightly colored storage tote boxes, one for each person. Let each family
member fill theirs with items they'll want 'right away' in the new home -- a set
of sheets, a towel, a couple of extension cords, a phone, nightlights, address
book, pens and paper, keys, kleenex, and travel cosmetic case, and so on.
Moving may not be the most fun you've ever had, but planning ahead will go a
long way toward making the process bearable.
What to Do Before the Moving Truck Arrives
When reminiscing, few people rarely describe their experience moving their
entire household as "fun."
It totally consumes you for a long time: planning, packing, moving,
cleaning.
When you arrive in your new home, you're faced with even more challenges.
It may seem a small thing to decide where to put the best china or everyday
dishes, but after all the work moving out of the old home, the last thing
you need is another big decision or another major project.
But doing some work to your new home right away will make moving in feel
great.
If you're moving into a new house, you may not need to do anything
at all. Lucky you!
But if you've bought a home with carpet you hate, you're probably
thinking that it has to go. Should you wait until you're moved in, or
tackle the job now?
You may decide that it's too much to think about right now, that you
should leave the decision about replacement for later after you've settled
in.
You may not have the budget or time to do anything but move. But be sure to
weigh in the "cost" to you in both hassle and time if you wait to do a
necessary project at a later date.
Replacing flooring is a major project, and if you have the money
and you can make just this one decision at moving time, you'll really be
doing yourself a favor. If you put it off, you'll be faced with moving all
your furniture out of the rooms. What a bother! Not just for you, but for
the flooring installers as well! There will be furniture all around the
place, and you'll have to move it back into the room when they're done. If
you can do it when you move, be sure to order the flooring well in advance
of your move. Make arrangements to have new flooring installed a day or two
before you move in. Cover the new flooring with mats, tarps, or area rugs so
the movers don't track in dirt or scratch the wood. Then, when they set your
sofa and coffee table in place -- you'll be home.
Below are some other pre-move-in projects that can save you time and
trouble.
Choose the projects that are the most pressing. If your budget won't
allow re-carpeting the entire house, just do one floor. If you can't face
paint decisions for every single room, then just do the rooms where the
decisions are easy.
Painting -
Whether you do the work yourself or hire someone to do it, it's a lot
easier to paint an empty room. There will be no need to move furniture, take
down draperies, clear out the closets, or take every picture or mirror off
the walls. Allow several days to repaint before the movers show up,
especially if you'll be doing the work yourself. This type of work always
takes longer than you think. Or, hire a crew (professional painters or
friends) to come in and get it over with in a day or two. Painting even part
of the house before you move in can be a terrific time saver. If you can't
decide on colors, then just have everything painted a clean white, a pretty
light beige, or other background color you love -- depending on what works
best with your furniture and color schemes. Once the major patching,
priming, trim work, and base coats are in, adding another wall color at a
later date can be a snap.
Crown Molding -
Does anyone not love the look of crown molding? It's a wonderful luxury
to be able to install molding around the whole house all at once, before you
move into your new home. Be sure to prime and pre-paint the strips of
molding before installation, just before painting the interior walls. You
may need to do some touch up at the joints and nail holes, but that's a lot
easier than standing on a ladder for days trying to paint three coats fo
paint on the molding near the ceiling!
Here are some more great projects to do before the moving truck
arrives at your new home.
Re-Key - You'll never know how many keys are floating around for your
new home unless you get new locks or re-key the existing locks. The previous
owners may have given a key to neighbors, workmen, relatives, or cleaning
services, and you'll get some peace of mind if you get new ones. This is a
project to do just before or soon after you move in.
Closet Systems -
Having things organized, fitting into your new home, will really make you
feel great. You'll love wonderful closet systems with double hanging poles,
drawers, and shelves up to the ceiling. If you wait until later, you'll have to
take everything out, pile your clothes in stacks on your bed or floor (can you
visualize your clothes wrinkling in giant stacks), and live out of suitcases for
a day or two until the closet fittings can be installed.
No matter when you choose to do it, professional installers can be in and out in
a jiffy. Do-it-yourselfers may need a bit longer to figure out the instructions,
but once the process is down for the first closet, each additional closet should
be faster and easier. If you do some measuring in your new home before you move
in, you can plan ahead and choose and buy your closet components ahead of time.
Electrical Upgrades -
If you're moving into a new home, you may have all the electrical outlets you
need. But older homes could be a challenge. You can do the upgrades anytime, but
everything is easier to get to in an empty room. Remember, electricians are paid
by the hour and they'll be able to work faster if they have immediate access to
outlets and room for ladders and equipment. Older homes may need GFIs in
kitchens and baths, as well as additional outlets for TVs, phones, computers, or
lamps. This would be a great time to add a ceiling fan, and an electrician can
install a wall switch, brace the ceiling and install a specialized box for the
fan. You might want better work light in your kitchen or reading spotlights over
your bed. Lighten up a hallway with new track lighting or add lights in your new
closets. Two real luxuries that are easy to do are an outlet inside a vanity for
your hair dryer or an outlet on the mantle for holiday lights. How about a
motion-activated ceiling light in a basement or laundry room? All of these
projects can be easier to complete when your rooms are empty. The work can be
completed without your having to move furniture or cover room accessories to
protect them from drilling dust.
Garage Storage -
Will you be able to park your car in the garage, or will it become the
storage spot for everything from garden tools to holiday decorations? Yes, once
you move in, it's FULL of stuff. So, if you want to build storage shelves,
finish the floor with an epoxy coating, or install a workbench, it can be much
easier to do it before the garage is stacked to the ceiling. Another handy tip
-- if you have sturdy garage shelving from a previous home, arrange to have it
loaded on the truck last, then unloaded first, so boxes marked "Storage" can be
placed easily and quickly onto waiting shelves.
Using the tips and hints here, you'll find that moving into your house can
really be a pleasant experience. You'll feel right at home in a jiffy! Happy
moving!
