Moving terminology can be confusing for those not in the industry. It can be especially frustrating when given multiple documents to sift through and sign when you are busy on moving day.
It's important to know what you are signing. Learning the terminology in advance will not only ease your frustration but will also ensure you're better prepared for your move.
One of the first moving documents you'll be given is an estimate. After coming to your home and surveying the items that you want to move, the moving consultant will provide you with a written estimate of how much your move will cost overall. This document will state that it is either a binding estimate, a non-binding estimate, or a not to exceed estimate.
Knowing what each means will help you to choose the one with which you are most comfortable.
There are several terms that may come come up as you discuss your move with your moving consultant or estimator:
Following are the contracts that you can expect to see from your moving company at each stage of the moving process
Order For Service: This is a contract that confirms that the movers have the right to perform the services detailed in the estimate. Be sure this is the company you want to carry out your moving services before signing this document.
Change Order: If you've decided upon services that differ from what was originally agreed to in the estimate or quote, this is the document that shows the changes and details how the changes will impact the total cost of your move.
Bill of Lading: This is a contract containing the terms and conditions as well as information specific to your move. The bill of lading will include your delivery dates, valuation coverage, and pricing and payment terms. Review the document carefully to make sure all the terms look right and match the estimate given to you. Discuss any questions you have with your movers before signing the bill of lading. It is required for all movers to have a signed bill of lading before shipping any of your items.
Inventory Sheet: Your movers will prepare a detailed list of items to be moved that also covers the condition of each item. If you don't agree with what the movers have listed, be sure to discuss it with them prior to signing.
Customer Check-off Sheet: Use this document to check off every item as it is unloaded from the truck. This is how you determine that all of your belongings made it from your old house to your new house. Be sure to make a note of any damaged or missing items on the check-off sheet, as well as on the inventory sheet, and/or the bill of lading before signing.
If you would like further details on the the documents that you will be presented with by your move estimator, as well as on your moving day, and on the day we deliver your belongings to your new home, don't hesitate to contact one of the helpful residential moving service consultants at Piepho Moving & Storage. We have consultants at each of our four locations: Minneapolis - St. Paul, Rochester, Mankato MN and La Crosse Wisconsin. You can reach us at 800-622-4515.
Best wishes for a safe and easy move!