While both the Bill of Lading (BOL) and the estimate are essential documents in the moving process, they serve distinct purposes:
1. The Bill of Lading (BOL):
- Legal Document: The BOL is a legally binding contract between you and the moving company (carrier). It outlines the terms and conditions of your move, including pricing, payment terms, and any additional services.
- Inventory: It provides a comprehensive inventory of the items being transported, including descriptions, quantities, and condition notes. This serves as a detailed record of your belongings.
- Ownership Transfer: By signing the BOL at pickup, you acknowledge that your items are in the carrier’s possession, and ownership is transferred to the carrier for the duration of the move.
- Tracking: The BOL is used to track your shipment during transit and is a crucial reference if any issues or claims arise during the move.
2. The Estimate:
- Cost Projection: The estimate is a document provided by the moving company before the move, detailing the anticipated cost of your relocation. It is based on factors such as the volume of your items, distance, and any additional services requested.
- Non-Binding: An estimate is typically non-binding, meaning it provides an estimated cost, but the final price may vary based on the actual services provided.
- Reference Point: It serves as a reference point for understanding the expected expenses of your move, helping you budget accordingly.
- No Transfer of Ownership: Unlike the BOL, the estimate does not involve the transfer of ownership or serve as a contractual agreement. It’s a pre-move cost projection.
In summary, while the Bill of Lading and the estimate both play crucial roles in your move, they have different functions. The BOL is a binding contract and inventory of your belongings, while the estimate is a cost projection that helps you anticipate expenses. It’s important to carefully review and understand both documents to ensure a smooth and transparent moving experience. If you have questions or discrepancies, it’s advisable to address them with your moving company before the move begins.
Firstly, let me clarify what a carrier and a moving broker are. A carrier is the actual company that owns and operates the moving trucks, while a moving broker is a third-party intermediary that connects customers with various carriers.
Are you planning a move soon and trying to decide whether to book with a carrier or a moving broker? If so, I’d like to take a moment to explain the key differences and why booking with a carrier is the superior choice.
1. Favorable Deposits and Cancellation Policy: When you book with a carrier, they typically accept all forms of payment, making it convenient for you to choose the payment method that suits you best. Carriers charge a smaller deposit to book with a favorable cancellation policy, ensuring you can secure your moving date without a significant upfront financial commitment. In contrast, moving brokers might not accept American Express and could hesitate to take deposits on credit cards. They may prefer Zelle or ACH (routing and account number) for deposit processing.
2. Personalized Service and Responsibility: When you book with a carrier, you’re dealing directly with the company that will be responsible for moving your precious belongings. Carriers prioritize your satisfaction and peace of mind because they are responsible for your valuables. You will sign the Bill of Lading to transfer ownership of your property, ensuring clarity and accountability throughout the move process. Moving brokers assume no responsibility for your valuables, and this is clearly stated in the fine print of their estimate. They will always pass your move to a carrier because they don’t own trucks or employ workers and drivers.
3. Simple and Accurate Estimates: Carriers provide simple and accurate estimates that reflect your specific move. These estimates are usually shorter than broker estimates, avoiding large military or senior citizen discounts and providing easy-to-understand quotes. Moving broker estimates may include the words “Binding Fee” and a large dollar amount. Moving brokers may make it seem like you’re getting a great deal, but they work on commission and aim to secure your deposit.
4. Communication and Responsibility: Typically, once you book with a moving broker, their involvement often ends. It’s common to find in the fine print of their estimates that this will be the last time you hear from them. Carriers, on the other hand, maintain communication with you throughout the entire process, ensuring a smoother and more personalized moving experience.
5. Accountability: In the event of any issues or concerns during your move, carriers are directly responsible and accountable for resolving them. They have a vested interest in providing exceptional service because their reputation is on the line. Moving brokers might not have the same level of accountability, potentially leaving you with less support in case of problems.
In summary, booking directly with a carrier offers numerous advantages, including more favorable deposit terms, personalized service, simple and accurate estimates, ongoing communication, and greater accountability. If you’re interested in learning more about our carrier services or receiving a quote for your move, please feel free to contact me at any time.
Note: You can verify the legitimacy of a moving company by checking their DOT (Department of Transportation) number or MC/MX number on the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website. Always do your research and choose a reputable carrier for a stress-free move.
Moving to a new state can be both exciting and challenging, and one of the key aspects to consider is how your belongings will be picked up and delivered. Long-distance residential moves typically involve the use of professional carriers to transport your goods. Here, we’ll provide you with insights into what to expect during the delivery phase of your move.
Standard Delivery Process
The standard delivery process for most long-distance moves involves the use of semi-trucks or 18-wheelers rather than small box trucks. Your belongings are typically loaded onto these larger vehicles, and the shipping schedule often includes stops for other deliveries along the way. This process is part of the carrier’s effort to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
Chartering
For customers who desire a more dedicated and immediate delivery, the option to charter an entire 26-foot box truck or semi-truck is available. Chartering ensures that your belongings are loaded onto a truck dedicated solely to your move. This option eliminates the need for offloading or warehousing, providing a more direct and faster delivery to your new home. However, it’s important to note that chartering services come at a higher cost compared to standard delivery methods.
Combining Smaller Moves
Smaller moves, typically involving less than 1700 cubic feet (cuft) of belongings, are often combined with larger moves going in the same direction. While this approach helps save on costs, it’s important to note that smaller moves may sometimes take longer to deliver. The delivery timeline for combined moves can be influenced by the logistics of accommodating multiple shipments, potentially resulting in extended delivery windows. However, carriers strive to streamline the process to minimize any delays and ensure a smooth delivery experience for all customers.
Labeling and Packaging
Efficient labeling and packaging are crucial for the smooth transportation and delivery of your belongings. Before the carrier arrives, it’s a good idea to label your furniture and boxes clearly. Many carriers use plastic wrap to combine large chunks of your belongings “cacoon style,” ensuring they stay protected and organized during transit.
First Available Delivery Date (FADD)
The first available delivery date (FADD) marks the start of a 30-day delivery window, which is the standard service period for most long-distance moves. It’s important to understand that this is not the guaranteed delivery date but rather the beginning of the delivery timeframe. Delivery schedules are based on various factors, including mileage, the destination, and the time of year (summer/winter). While carriers aim to meet estimated delivery times, factors like traffic, weather conditions, unforeseen mechanical issues, or unexpected delays can affect the actual delivery date.
Additional Considerations
At the delivery destination, particularly if you live in an area that is challenging for large trucks to access, you may incur shuttle fees. These fees may exceed $1 per cubic foot if a semi-truck cannot directly reach your home due to factors such as limited parking, narrow streets, dirt roads, or sharp curves.
When it comes to delivery, please consider the following time frames:
- Moves within 500 miles: 1 to 7 business days
- Moves within 750 miles: 1 to 10 business days
- Moves within 1000 miles: 2 to 14 business days
- Moves within 1500 miles: 2 to 14 business days
- Moves over 1500 miles: 3 to 30 business days
Bill of Lading
On moving day, you’ll be presented with a Bill of Lading to sign. This legal document serves as a contract between you and the carrier, outlining the terms and conditions of your move. It includes details such as the agreed-upon delivery address, the list of items being transported, and the agreed-upon delivery schedule.
In summary, understanding the delivery process for long-distance moves is essential for managing your expectations and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home. By working closely with your chosen mover/carrier and staying informed about the process, you can make the moving experience more efficient and less stressful. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your upcoming long-distance move, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your carrier to ensure a successful relocation.
Packing for a move can be a complex task, but with careful planning and consideration, it can become more manageable and stress-free. Here’s a more elaborate explanation of key packing tips:
Select the Right Boxes:
Ensure you have an assortment of sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes to accommodate different types of items. Remember not to overfill boxes, as this can make them too heavy and prone to damage.
Label Boxes Clearly:
Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room where it belongs for easy unpacking. For added organization, you might even consider color-coding boxes based on rooms or categories.
Handling Special Items:
For delicate items such as pianos, it’s advisable to hire professional packers well in advance. They possess the expertise to safely disassemble, pad, and transport these valuable items. Grandfather clocks require special care as well. Remove pendulums and weights before the move, and consider seeking experts experienced in moving delicate, heavy pieces. Chandeliers should be carefully disassembled, and each part should be labeled. Wrap individual pieces securely in bubble wrap to prevent damage during transport. Fragile items, including glassware and electronics, must be packed with extra caution. Utilize generous amounts of bubble wrap to cushion each item. Additionally, ensure that there is minimal movement within boxes by filling any gaps with packing paper or more bubble wrap.
Understanding Packing Services:
It’s essential to make a decision regarding packing services well in advance of your move. You have the option to either hire professional packers or undertake the packing yourself. Be aware that there’s a distinction between furniture disassembly (often included) and additional services such as plastic and bubble wrapping (usually incurring extra costs). Clarify these details with your chosen moving company.
Plan and Organize:
Commence the packing process as early as possible to avoid the stress of last-minute rushes. Develop a comprehensive moving checklist to guide your packing efforts. Prioritize packing items you’ll require immediately upon arrival at your new home.
Prepare an Essentials Box:
Pack a separate “essentials box” with toiletries, a change of clothing, important documents, and any necessities you’ll need in the first few days after moving.
Tools for Furniture:
Ensure you have the necessary tools, such as screwdrivers and wrenches, readily available for disassembling and reassembling furniture.
Prioritize Safety:
Prioritize safety by using proper lifting techniques to prevent injury. Avoid straining yourself by attempting to lift items that are too heavy.
Stay Organized:
Maintain a detailed inventory of your possessions. This inventory will be valuable for insurance purposes and also help you keep track of your belongings throughout the move.
Optimize Packing Space:
Make efficient use of available packing space. Fill any gaps in boxes with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent items from shifting during transit.
By implementing these detailed packing tips, you’ll be better prepared to execute a smooth and successful move. Whether you choose to enlist professional packers or handle the packing yourself, these strategies will help ensure that your belongings arrive safely and securely at your new residence.
Furniture:
- Sofa: (84″ x 36″ x 36″) – (21 cu ft)
- Dining Table: (60″ x 36″ x 30″) – (45 cu ft)
- Refrigerator: (36″ x 30″ x 70″) – (47 cu ft)
- Washing Machine: (27″ x 25″ x 43″) – (19 cu ft)
- Large Armoire: (48″ x 24″ x 72″) – (51 cu ft)
- King Bed: (76″ x 80″ x 24″) – (90 cu ft)
- Couch: (84″ x 36″ x 36″) – (21 cu ft)
- Bookshelf: (36″ x 12″ x 72″) – (18 cu ft)
- Dresser: (60″ x 18″ x 36″) – (38 cu ft)
- Desk: (48″ x 24″ x 30″) – (24 cu ft)
- Coffee Table: (36″ x 24″ x 18″) – (9 cu ft)
- Christmas Tree Box: (Varies by tree size)
Boxes:
- Small Box: (16″ x 12″ x 12″) – (1.5 cu ft)
- Medium Box: (18″ x 18″ x 16″) – (3 cu ft)
- Large Box: (18″ x 18″ x 24″) – (4.5 cu ft)
- Extra Large Box: (24″ x 18″ x 24″) – (6 cu ft)
- TV Box: Dimensions vary by TV size, typically (36+ cu ft)
Plastic Bins:
- Plastic Bin A: (24″ x 16″ x 12″) – (2.67 cu ft) – (18 gallons)
- Plastic Bin B: (18″ x 14″ x 10″) – (1.75 cu ft) – (12 gallons)
- Plastic Bin C: (30″ x 20″ x 15″) – (7.5 cu ft) – (32 gallons)
- Plastic Bin D: (36″ x 24″ x 18″) – (16 cu ft) – (64 gallons)
- Plastic Bin E: (48″ x 24″ x 18″) – (24 cu ft) – (96 gallons)
Fish Tanks:
- 10-Gallon Fish Tank: (20″ x 10″ x 12″) – (3 cu ft)
- 20-Gallon Fish Tank: (24″ x 12″ x 16″) – (5 cu ft)
- 30-Gallon Fish Tank: (36″ x 12″ x 16″) – (8 cu ft)
- 55-Gallon Fish Tank: (48″ x 13″ x 21″) – (14 cu ft)
- 75-Gallon Fish Tank: (48″ x 18″ x 21″) – (20 cu ft)
Bulky Items (estimated sizes):
- Grand Piano: (60″ x 60″ x 48″) – (80 cu ft)
- Riding Lawn Mower: (48″ x 36″ x 36″) – (36 cu ft)
- Grandfather Clock: (18″ x 12″ x 80″) – (16 cu ft)
- 700 lbs Safe: (30″ x 30″ x 48″) – (40 cu ft)
- Pool Table: (100″ x 56″ x 32″) – (80 cu ft)
- Large Tool Box: (36″ x 24″ x 24″) – (18 cu ft)
This comprehensive list provides estimated dimensions and cubic feet measurements to help you plan your move effectively. Please note that actual sizes may vary, and it’s essential to measure your items accurately for precise planning.
Understanding how much space your reserving will help you make choices that save you money and make your move go smoothly.
Size of Truck and Cubic Feet
SMALL POD: 286 cf. (2000 lbs)
Cargo Van: 300 cf. (2100 lbs)
8’ truck: 400 cf. (2800 lbs)
10’ truck: 500 cf. (3500 lbs)
12’ truck: 600 cf. (4200 lbs)
15’ truck: 750 cf. (5200 lbs)
16’ truck: 800 cf. (5600 lbs)
17’ truck: 850 cf. (6000 lbs)
20’ truck: 1200 cf. (8400 lbs)
22’ truck: 1400 cf. (9800 lbs)
26’ truck: 1700 cf. (12,000 lbs)
52’ semi: 4200 cf. (40,000 lbs)
Understanding Cubic Feet and Truck Sizes
When you’re preparing for a full-service move, it’s crucial to know what your estimate covers. One vital part of this is the space you’re reserving in the moving truck, measured in cubic feet (cf.). Many times, people focus solely on the price without considering the available space. To make smart choices about your move, it’s essential to understand how space and cost are linked.
Figuring Out Your Space Needs
The size of your move determines how much room you’ll need in the moving truck. Each truck has a set capacity measured in cubic feet (cf.) to hold your belongings. When you receive estimates for your full-service move, cubic feet will come up often. It’s important to match your estimate with the volume of items you’re moving. The provided list of truck sizes and their corresponding cubic feet can help you with this.
Selecting the Right Truck Size
While planning your full-service move, use the cubic feet information to choose the correct truck size. If you’re moving a few pieces of furniture and some boxes, a cargo van or a smaller truck might be sufficient. For more items, especially if you have a queen-size bed or larger, you’ll need a bigger truck with more cubic feet. By matching your estimate with your belongings and the available truck sizes, you can ensure you’re reserving the right amount of space for your move. This way, you can make informed decisions while staying within your budget.
When it comes to planning a move, one crucial aspect often overlooked is understanding the cancellation policies involved. It’s essential to know that carriers and moving brokers have specific cancellation policies in place. Let’s break down what you need to know to make informed decisions.
1. Timing Matters:
Cancellation policies typically depend on when you decide to cancel your move. The earlier you make this decision, the more likely you are to receive a refund. For example, if you cancel within 72 hours of placing your reservation, you may receive a refund (minus any applicable fees). However, if you book within 7-10 days of your move date, there typically is no refund on cancellation.
2. Reading Your Estimate:
Your move estimate is a critical document. It’s not just about the cost but also outlines essential terms and conditions, including cancellation policies. Before you proceed, thoroughly read and understand this document.
3. Cancellation Policies:
Both carriers and moving brokers may have cancellation policies specifying the number of days within which you can cancel your move to receive a refund. For example, if you cancel within 72 hours of placing your reservation, you may receive a refund (minus any applicable fees). However, if you book within 7-10 days of your move date, there typically is no refund on cancellation.
4. Refunds and Fees:
Refunds, if applicable, usually exclude any processing or administrative fees. It’s essential to review these deductions before requesting a cancellation.
5. Rescheduling and Changes:
If your plans change, such as needing to reschedule your move date or altering your order, promptly inform your moving company in writing. Changes could impact your cancellation eligibility.
6. Understanding Your Responsibility:
Remember that you, as the customer, are responsible for understanding and agreeing to the terms and conditions of your move estimate, including the cancellation policies, as outlined in the agreement you electronically signed.
7. Dispute Resolution:
Before disputing any issues related to your move, make an effort to resolve them directly with the moving company. Many disputes can be settled through direct communication.
8. Seeking Clarity:
If you have any questions or concerns about the cancellation policies or any other aspect of your move, don’t hesitate to reach out to your moving company for clarification.
9. Refund Window:
Some policies may provide a specific window of time within which you can request a refund. Ensure you understand this timeframe.
10. Late Booking Considerations:
If you book your move within a certain number of days before your move date, cancellation policies may differ. Be aware of these variations when planning your move.
In summary, when planning a move, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the cancellation policies of the carrier or moving broker involved. These policies can vary, so reading and understanding the terms in your estimate is essential. By being informed, you can make more confident decisions throughout your moving journey.
Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly: Our team will professionally disassemble any furniture that requires it for safe transit. We’ll also reassemble these items at your new location, making your move more convenient.
Placement of Furniture: As part of our service, we’ll handle the placement of your furniture at your new destination, so you don’t have to worry about heavy lifting or arranging items.
Loading and Unloading: The loading and unloading of all your items are included in your estimate. Our skilled movers will handle these tasks with care and efficiency.
Transportation, Taxes, Tolls, Mileage, and Fuel Surcharges: Your estimate covers all transportation-related costs, including taxes, tolls, mileage, and fuel surcharges. You won’t encounter any unexpected expenses in this regard.
Standard Cargo Protection: We offer standard cargo protection up to $10,000 based on 0.60 cents per pound per article. This protection is automatically included in your estimate.
Professional Door-to-Door Service: We provide comprehensive door-to-door service, ensuring that your belongings are safely transported from your current location to your new destination.
Expert Advice and Guidance: Throughout your entire moving process, you’ll benefit from expert advice and guidance. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Furniture Protection: All non-fragile items will be meticulously wrapped with special moving blankets to safeguard them during transit.
Itemized Inventory: We maintain a detailed itemized inventory that indicates the condition of your items at the origin. This inventory helps ensure the accurate and safe transportation of your belongings.
Notes:
- If you wish to select a different protection option with varying deductible levels, you can do so at the time your bill of lading is prepared. The estimated cost for these options is provided in your estimate, but the actual cost will be determined based on your selection.
- When preparing your belongings for the move, please ensure that all containers are securely sealed and taped along every seam. Label your boxes on two sides and the top using a permanent marker, including your name and the originating room of the box.
- Delicate or fragile items, such as televisions, computers, stereos, lamps, mirrors, picture frames, marble objects, glass items, glass table tops, and mattresses, should be safeguarded in boxes or crates before moving. You can choose to pack these items yourself or opt for our team to pack them on moving day for an additional charge.
With these inclusions, you can have confidence in a well-organized and protected move to your new destination.
Your moving estimate is a valuable tool for understanding the anticipated costs of your move. However, there are certain services and situations that are not included in your estimate. It’s important to be aware of these so you can plan accordingly and avoid unexpected charges.
1. Packing Services:
- Fragile Items: The estimate does not cover the packing of delicate items such as TVs, mirrors, pictures, mattresses, and glass/marble items. If you require packing for these items, please inform your salesperson in advance to receive a rate for this service.
- Full Packing: Any additional packing services needed or requested beyond what was originally estimated will result in additional charges.
2. Stairs:
- First Flight Included: The estimate typically includes the cost of the first flight of stairs (usually 7 steps).
- Additional Flights: If there are additional flights of stairs at either the pickup or delivery location, these will be charged per flight.
3. Long Carry:
- Initial 75 Feet Included: The estimate covers the first 75 feet of long carry from the moving truck to your door.
- Additional Distance: If the distance for long carry exceeds 75 feet, additional charges will apply based on the distance (with a minimum charge of $350.00).
4. Shuttle Service:
- Inaccessible Locations: If the moving truck cannot reasonably access your building or house for loading or unloading, a shuttle truck may be required.
- Shuttle Rate: The cost for shuttle service is determined based on the size of the truck and the destination city. It’s important to note that this service can result in additional charges.
5. Optional Accessorial Services and Additional Fees:
- Additional Services: Moving companies may offer additional services like storage, packing materials, unpacking, appliance servicing, shuttle, long carry, and more.
- Charges for Additional Services: If you request or require any of these additional services post-contract or during the move, the charges for these services will be added to your final bill.
6. Prohibited Items:
- Excluded Items: Certain items are prohibited from being included in your shipment, such as personal documents, jewelry, medicines, personal remains, firearms, cash, bank notes, hazardous materials, pets, liquids, or perishable items.
- Customer Discretion: If you choose to include these prohibited items in your shipment, you do so at your own discretion, and the moving company will not assume any liability for them.
7. Bulky Items and Elaborate Furniture:
- Disassembly/Reassembly: Elaborate furniture items that require disassembly and/or reassembly may necessitate third-party professional servicing or additional labor. Please disclose such items to your estimator in advance to have them included in the estimate.
- Appliance Handling: Disconnecting and reconnecting appliances is not included in the estimate and may result in additional charges.
- Packing and Unpacking: Packing materials, materials, and unpacking services are available at an extra cost and are only included if explicitly listed in the services section of the estimate.
8. Additional Fees for Bulky Items:
- Examples: Bulky items such as pianos, grandfather clocks, trampolines, hot tubs, pool tables, and riding lawn mowers may incur additional fees.
- Additional Costs: These fees vary depending on the nature and size of the bulky item.
Please keep these exclusions in mind when planning your move. If you require any of these services, it’s advisable to discuss them with your moving company in advance to obtain accurate rates and ensure a smooth moving experience.
BEFORE THE MOVE
Download are read over the resources from DOT.GOV website:
- MOVING CHECKLIST PDF
- RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITY BROCHURE
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors regarding reputable movers or fill out the FREE QUOTE and a reputable and local carrier will help you.
- Understand the mover’s liability for potential damages to your belongings.
- Inquire about the mover’s dispute settlement program.
- Get estimates from at least three movers and compare costs and services.
- Verify if the interstate mover is registered with FMCSA and holds a USDOT number.
- Confirm the pickup and delivery details of your household goods.
- Obtain contact information for the mover before, during, and after the move.
- Be present to guide and answer questions for the movers.
- Accompany movers during inventory checks and address any concerns.
- Thoroughly read and understand documents before signing them.
- Keep the Bill of Lading until goods are delivered and all claims are settled.
- Double-check your premises before the moving van departs.
- Provide directions to your new home and ensure the movers know how to reach you.
- Be present to supervise unloading and answer any questions.
- Pay the driver before unloading begins.
- Monitor the unloading and unpacking of your belongings.
- Note any damaged items on the inventory list before signing documents.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
DOT LOOKUP – CARRIER OR BROKER
DOT EXTENSIVE SEARCH
READ AND UNDERSTAND DOCUMENTS
Review key documents from the mover, including estimates, orders for service, bills of lading, and inventory lists. Do not sign blank or unclear paperwork.
RESOLVING ISSUES
- Utilize the dispute settlement program provided by movers for disputes.
- For damaged goods, complete a claim form provided by the mover within 9 months of delivery.
- Seek assistance for overcharged transportation charges from the Surface Transportation Board.
- File a complaint with FMCSA if needed.
FMCSA’s brochure aims to empower you in making informed moving decisions. While most moves proceed smoothly, understanding your rights and options is crucial. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ensures registered movers meet specific regulations to safeguard your belongings during the move. Remember, knowledge is key when selecting a reputable mover.