Q: What is Bill of Lading?
A: The Bill of Lading plays the role of a contract between you and the carrier, which you sign prior to the move. It details the term of the shipment and serves as proof of evidence in case you open a dispute against your mover. The Bill of lading is an important part of the moving paperwork and you should read it carefully and make sure you understand every single clause in it prior to signing it. Typically, this document contains, but is not limited to, these sections: Contact and license information of the shipping company, Shipment information, Services and costs provided by the carrier, Carrier liability, Dispute settlement procedures, Payment methods and so on.
Q: How is the cost of my move calculated?
A: The cost of the move depends on its type. For a local move, typically within 100 miles, the cost is calculated on an hourly basis while for long-distance cross-country moves the price is determined by the distance covered. Beside this, the cost of each move is calculated by its size – the weight and size of the items that will need to be packed and loaded. There are some other additional components to consider, which may add-up to the final price significantly – packing labor and supplies, moving insurance, handling of bulky items, storage fees, moving cancellation fee, and many more. Precise calculation can be obtained with the so-called in-house estimate. Ask your mover for a detailed breakdown of the final price you’ve been offered.
Q: What is an In-home estimate?
A: The calculation if the moving cost is a complicated process which depends on many variables. You can request an estimate through a telephone interview but it will not be as precise and accurate as an in-home survey. During physical surveys movers’ representatives identify your specific moving needs, items that need special handling, bulky items that need custom packaging, any structural features of your home which can hinder the moving process and any other details that can affect the final cost of the move. Plus, with an in-home survey, you can get a binding estimate, which guarantees you that the estimated cost of the move will not be exceeded (provided no accessorial services are requested).
Q: What are Binding and Non-Binding estimates?
A: Binding estimates provides you with the total cost of the move based on the weight or size of your items and the additional required services. The binding estimate is a written agreement made upon reservation. Do not mix up “binding” with “final moving price” because on moving day there may be changes in the parameters of the job and the mover has the right to not honor the estimate and execute the job. Also, the movers have the right to impose a charge for providing written binding estimates.
Non-Binding estimates are designed to give you more of a general idea of what you can expect to pay for your move. The mover is obliged to explain to you that the final charges might exceed the approximate costs in the estimate. Non-binding estimates are issued free of charge.
Q: How do I move my home appliances?
A: Most of the major home appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, stoves, air conditioners, and dishwashers need special handling when moving. The key moment here is that each of these pieces of equipment has its own specifics, requirements and preparations for a safe relocation. It is the responsibility of the owner to service the appliances prior to their packing and loading onto the moving truck.