Explaining The Responsibilities Of Interstate Movers

Moving across states can present unique challenges compared to local moving. But it doesn’t have to be stressful or difficult. A reputable moving company can streamline the move by taking the stress out of the process. They will help with strenuous tasks such as disassembling furniture, packing, loading, transporting, unpacking and unloading belongings. Perhaps best of all, they’re experienced and insured, so you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing the right people handle your belongings.

Before working with an interstate mover, you need to understand your rights as well as the mover’s responsibilities. Interstate movers must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to operate legally. FMCSA establishes regulations outlining the responsibilities of these movers. Read on to learn the responsibilities of an interstate moving company.

Provide Moving Paperwork for Review

As a client, it’s your responsibility to go through all the paperwork from your moving company and ascertain it’s up to code and accurate. Some of the paperwork a reputable moving company should provide you with include:

• Freight bill
• Order of service
• Weight tickets for non-binding estimates
• Itemized inventory list
• Bill of lading

Besides being a legal requirement from FMCSA, these documents help to set clear expectations as they outline the services offered, estimated costs, insurance options and more. Also, the paperwork can help you to make an informed decision as you’ll understand the terms of service.

Provide Written Estimate

The FMCSA requires all interstate moving companies to provide their clients with written estimates on all shipments transported. An estimate is a breakdown of all charges incurred during the move. It includes storage costs, liability coverage, transportation costs, deposits, taxes and fees, and additional services such as packing and unpacking, extra stops, or wait time.

Estimates are categorized as either binding or non-binding:

Binding Estimates

A binding estimate is based on inventoried services and items to guarantee the total moving cost. The estimated charges are calculated according to the inventoried items and not weight. As you move, it’s advisable to make sure all your items are included in the estimate’s inventory to avoid inconveniences.

The FMCSA highlights general regulations that your mover needs to abide by as follows:

• The mover has to inform you before putting additional charges to the estimate.
• Any extra charges incurred when moving are billed separately.
• The mover is to provide you with a written estimate indicating that it’s binding.
• Movers can draft a revised estimate or refuse service if they notice additional items in your shipment.

A binding estimate can be a safe way to avoid surprises when paying a mover. It minimizes risk by giving you a definite budget before your move.

Non-binding Estimates

Unlike binding estimates, non-binding estimates project your moving costs without a definite price. Estimate calculations are based on the number of packing materials used by the mover and the weight of the items. You are billed for the difference between the empty truck’s weight and its weight after loading your shipment.

Even though there is no definite price, movers cannot charge you more than 110% of the total estimate after delivery. The FMCSA outlines the following rules governing non-binding estimates:

• Movers should provide the moving party with a reasonable estimate based on the services required and the weight of items.
• Movers should vividly explain all the shipment charges under a non-binding estimate.
• The non-binding estimate should be presented to you in writing.

If you’re considering this estimate type, be informed of the maximum and minimum moving costs to help you stay within budget.

The estimate type you’re issued informs your shipment fee calculation. Only sign a complete estimate to prevent deceitful movers from tampering with your moving terms or costs without your consent.

Verify Legitimacy

Credible movers should provide clear information on whether they’re brokers or movers and provide you with their certifications for the avoidance of doubt. Follow these five steps to verify a company’s legitimacy:

1. Do thorough research.

You have to conduct due diligence on potential moving companies. You can ask for referrals from friends and family who’ve had an interstate moving experience. Also, look up movers online and review their reviews on reputable sites.

2. Verify their insurance and licensing policies.

All reputable moving companies are registered with FMCSA. You can verify a company’s registration by visiting the FMCSA website, which contains all insurance and licensing information. Pay attention to the company’s workers’ compensation insurance that protects employees in case of an accident during the move.

3. Double-check credentials.

A company having membership in professional organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) is a green flag. These organizations give you a sense of reassurance by continuously monitoring the ethical practices and quality of services business members provide to their customers. Visit any organization’s websites to verify if the moving company you’re eyeing is a member. As much as membership is optional, it can indicate a business’s professionalism.

4. Obtain multiple estimates.

Request a quote from at least three moving companies and evaluate them regarding your moving situation and belongings. Compare and contrast the prices, services offered, and guarantees, if any. Don’t automatically go for the cheaper. Gauge the value of each service provider before making a decision.

5. Look out for red flags.

Familiarizing yourself with common red flags associated with con stars can prevent you from falling for scams. If the moving company lacks a physical address, has significantly low quotes, lacks a customized logo on equipment and logo, or only accepts cash payments, it can be a sign of illegitimacy. Being aware of such red flags can help you choose a reliable company.

Compensate for Any Damages, Losses or Delays

An esteemed business aims to provide you with a seamless moving experience, but in case of any accidents, damage or loss that happens when moving, you have a right to claim and seek compensation. Guidelines stipulate that any damage claims should be submitted within nine months after delivery or, in case of a loss, from the expected delivery date.

Delivery and pick-up delays from the mover guarantee a delay claim. Movers should outline charges in the form of lading bill penalties and reimbursements in case of a delay in the contract.

Understand the Moving Lingo

Familiarize yourself with some of the terms involved in the moving process. These include:

• Order for Service: This document authorizes the moving company to offer the services outlined in the moving estimate.
• Valuation: This refers to the maximum monetary value for your shipment, for which the mover is liable in case of loss or damage.
• Bill of Lading: Bill of lading is the shipment receipt and contract giving transportation details of your shipment.
• Tariff: This document contains rules, regulations, rates, classifications and other provisions issued by the moving company.

Choose Reliable Interstate Movers for Quality Services

Interstate moves are a huge milestone to mark new beginnings. Research potential interstate movers and verify their legitimacy to protect yourself from scams. Familiarize yourself with movers’ terminology and guidelines as stipulated in the FMCSA.

Allegiance Van Lines, LLC offers high-quality moving services, whether local, long-distance or nationwide moving. We are a family-owned business with 20 years of combined experience in long-distance moving services. Contact us at (561) 210-5120 for a free quote, and a stress-free move.