13 Moving Terms That Could Save You From Being Scammed
July 7, 2016
Although, at Beltmann Relocation we try to walk you through the process and make things as simple as possible – during the time when you’re deciding on a moving company, you might be surprised to learn that some of the terms that moving companies use may feel like a foreign language.
It’s important to know what these terms mean in order to make the best decision you can about whether you want to hire a mover. Knowing these terms will also ensure you do not get scammed, as you will see there are multiple options for your moving estimate and quote.
Accessorial (Additional Service) – Services that would fall under this umbrella would be things like packing, unpacking or if you require a shuttle service. These will be charges added on top of your transportation fee.
Advanced Charges – If you see these charges on your bill, you will know they were services not performed by the mover. It was required because of (most likely) your request – these services required a 3rd party.
Bill of Landing – This is just a fancy word for a receipt of your goods, which also includes a contract for transporting your items to your destination. It’s important that you read over this contract carefully to make sure you understand your responsibility versus the movers. If you do not understand everything, do not sign it. Also, it’s important to keep a copy for your records.
Binding and Non- Binding Estimate – When you get an estimate from a mover, there will be two options. The first is a binding estimate – which will guarantee that the cost of your move will be based on the quantities and services included in the estimate. A Non-binding estimate is a quote that is just that – an estimate, on moving day you will be charged for what is actually moved – including the weight of your items and the tariff provisions in effect on that day. Beware of “low ball” non-binding estimates — they appear low in the estimate, but the prices are jacked-up on moving day.
Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery Service – Some moving companies will offer a service by which they guarantee pick-up and delivery dates and they provide reimbursements for delays.
High Value Articles – These items are defined as something you would like to move that is valued at more than $100 per pound. You should disclose these items to the mover or consider purchasing extra insurance protection for them.
Inventory – Inventory is a list of things you are moving, which includes the number of items and the condition of each.
Transportation Charge – These are charges for vehicle transportation.
Order for Service – This is a document that allows the mover to transport your household goods.
Pickup and Delivery Charges – These are charges that are separate from the transportation line item; these include a fee for transporting your items from the warehouse to your residence.
Shuttle Service – Sometimes (especially in big cities), your move may require the use of a smaller vehicle, so you will see a charge here for shuttle service.
Storage-in-Transit (SIT) – If your move requires temporary warehouse storage, you will see the charge under this line item.
Valuation – Valuation is how much “value” is placed on your shipment. This number will determine the ultimate valuation charge, which can go up or down – depending on how much liability you would like to place on the mover. The standard valuation is normally included in your total moving costs, which is .60/pound – but if you have items that are of higher value – you might want to consider purchasing more valuation in order ensure a higher compensation rate if something should happen to your items during transit.
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