Hiring Professional Movers

Moving companies provide a variety of services for a range of fees. It is a good idea to talk with different movers to compare their services. To find out who the best movers are in your area, begin by asking friends about their experiences with the movers they have used. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer organizations in your local area.

When selecting a mover – especially an interstate mover — we encourage consumers to choose a moving company that is a member of the American Trucking Associations (ATA). Members of the ATA are required to follow all federal consumer protection regulations, participate in the loss and damage Arbitration Program sponsored by our organization.

Once you have compiled a list of movers, inform them of the destination and timing of your move. Ask them about the types of services they offer. Also ask them to explain their estimates in detail and to give you a copy. Then carefully compare to see which mover best suits your needs and budget.

A word about Estimates – most movers offer two types of estimates: non-binding and binding.

Non-binding estimates are not bids or contracts. Instead, a non-binding estimate is an approximation of the cost based on the mover’s survey of the items to be moved, with the final cost determined after the shipment is weighed and any additional services have been provided, including any services that may be required at destination. Since a non-binding estimate is based on the actual weight and actual services provided on your shipment (rather than the estimated weight) the price will usually be lower than a binding estimate. However, because your final charges will be based on the actual weight of your shipment and the services performed, when you receive a non-binding estimate there is no guarantee that the final cost will not be more than the estimate.

Under a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot require you to pay, at the time your shipment is delivered, more than the amount of the estimate plus 10 percent (or 110% of the estimate amount) plus the charges for any additional services that you requested after you signed the estimate. The mover will invoice you for any remaining charges with payment due within 30 days of your mover’s invoice.

For example, if you received a non-binding estimate based on the estimated weight of your shipment from your mover for $5,000, you would be required to pay no more than 110% of this amount (or $5,500) at delivery for the services and quantities listed on your estimate if the actual weight was more. When this happens (your shipment weighs more than the estimated amount), your mover will invoice you for the additional amount after your shipment has been delivered.

In the event that shuttle service is required, your mover may also collect for the shuttle charges at delivery – provided that the shuttle charges collected at delivery do not exceed fifteen (15%) percent of the total charges due at delivery. Your mover will invoice you for any remaining charges after delivery.

Many movers also provide binding estimates. A binding estimate means that you are obligated to pay the price set forth in the binding estimate even if the shipment weighs more than or less than the estimated amount.

All binding estimates cover only the goods and services listed on the estimate. If you add items or request additional services, the mover may revise the original estimate before your shipment is loaded or, if you request additional services after your shipment is in transit, your mover will bill you for these added services when your shipment is delivered.

In addition, all movers reserve the right to charge for services necessary to accomplish delivery, even if those services are not requested by the shipper. For example, additional charges will apply if you are not prepared to accept delivery and the shipment is placed in storage, or if a smaller (shuttle) truck must be used to accomplish delivery because your new home is located on a narrow street, up a steep hill, or in some other type of location that cannot be safely reached by a over-the-road tractor trailer.

Another type of binding estimate used by many movers is the Not-To-Exceed Estimate. This type of estimate is called various things by various movers, such as Guaranteed Price or Price Protection, but the end result is the same — an estimate based on a binding estimate or on actual cost, whichever is lower . Like a binding estimate, a not-to-exceed estimate must be provided to you in writing and is binding on the carrier.

Not-to-Exceed estimates differ though in that the binding estimate amount becomes the maximum amount that you will be obligated to pay for the services listed on the estimate. This maximum amount alternates with the applicable tariff charges based on the actual weight of the shipment, with the customer paying the lesser of the two amounts. When you accept a not-to-exceed estimate, the move is performed at actual weight based on the tariff rate levels, with the binding estimate representing the maximum charge that you will have to pay.

For example, if you receive a not-to-exceed estimate for $7700 for your shipment, but the actual charges total $7200 after the shipment was weighed, you would pay the lower $7200 amount for your move. If, on the other hand, the actual charges total $8200 after your shipment was weighed, you would only pay the $7700 not-to-exceed amount for your move.

If you are moving interstate, you should read and understand all of the information you will receive. In addition to brochures explaining their various services, moving companies should give you a copy of a consumer booklet entitled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and information regarding the mover’s participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. Distribution of the consumer booklet and the requirement that movers offer shippers neutral arbitration as a means of settling disputes that may arise concerning loss or damage on household goods shipments are requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

It is important to try to make arrangements for your move well in advance, at least four to six weeks before the moving date.

When you choose your mover, be sure you understand:

• The rates and charges that will apply.
• The mover’s liability for your belongings.
• How pickup and delivery will work.
• What claims protection you have.

How to Interview Professional Movers

There are several questions you need to ask when selecting a moving company. The challenge, if you so choose to accept it, is to find the right company to trust with moving your valuables. Here are some good questions that will help you learn more about the companies you’re considering.

• How long has the company been in business?
• How long has the salesperson or estimator you’re speaking with been in the industry?
• Have any complaints been filed against the company? If so, what were they and what measures have they taken to rectify the situation? Check with the Better Business Bureau.
• Does their van line have a formal quality ratings program? If so, what are these scores and can you see them?
• Is there a third party service provider that will be involved in moving specialty items like a pool table, piano or grandfather clock? If so, who are they?

First impressions really do count. Judge your estimator on their professionalism, attention to detail and responsiveness to your inquiries. Also make sure they give a thorough explanation of their pricing and process. For example, if the estimate is binding or non-binding. These things can tell you a lot about the company philosophy and how comfortable you’ll be in working with them.