When you’re preparing for a big move, it can be daunting to understand the moving industry terminology involved in the process. Knowing basic moving terms can mean distinguishing between a successful move and an utterly unorganized disaster. At Element Moving & Storage, we provide white-glove moving services that make our moves a world-class experience. As part of our professionalism and experience that keeps our clients singing our praises, we love to keep you in the loop throughout a move. It all starts with knowing the in’s and out’s of moving industry terminology.
Let’s review some of the most common moving industry terms that will help you better understand the moving process.
Accessorial/Additional Service Charges
Your moving costs could easily exceed the standard haul itself. Services such as packing, furniture assembly, appliance servicing, or other services you request can be added to your final bill.
Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is the receipt for your goods and the contract for their transportation. You must understand the bill of lading before you sign it. If you do not agree with something on this document, do not sign it. This is an important document that any reliable moving team will be happy to thoroughly review with you before signing.
Estimate
A moving estimate is what the mover believes your move will cost. The estimate is typically based on the distance of your move, the amount of items you’re moving, the size of items you’re moving, and the time of year for your move. Common estimates are non-binding because they are what the mover believes the cost will be. The final cost can be higher or lower at the end of the move.
Binding Estimate
A binding estimate is an agreement made in advance with the mover that guarantees the total cost of the move based on the quantities, weight, and services shown on the estimate. Binding estimates help moving families stick to a budget and rest easier, knowing there are no hidden fees or surprises in store for them.
Liability
Liability is the legal responsibility a mover will have for your belongings during your move. Federal law requires interstate movers to have full-value and released-value protection if something goes wrong.
Full-Value Protection (FVP)
FVP is a moving insurance option that requires movers to hold full financial responsibility for the replacement value of any lost or broken items during a move.
Released Value Protection
Released Value Protection is the free coverage option movers will offer. This protection is minimal, at 0.60 cents per pound, per article.
Line Haul Charges
Line haul charges are the transportation costs of your move. These charges are separate from accessory charges and can be influenced by the mode of transportation used, the distance of the move, the weight of the items, the season, and the load-to-truck ratio.
110 Percent Rule
This law limits how much a moving company can charge on a non-binding estimate. Based on this rule, movers can’t charge above 110 percent of the original estimate upon delivery.
PBO
This stands for Packed By Owner. During a moving inventory, movers will label owner-packed items as PBO. Movers are not liable for these items unless the boxes are severely damaged in the move.
Short Haul
A short haul in a move is when goods are moved a short distance of up to 450 miles. During a short haul, the vehicle returns to its home base at the end of the shift.
Interstate Move
Also known as long-distance moves, interstate moves involve moving customers between states. They are generally more involved and require a moving team with years of experience in this field.
Claim
When items other than PBC are damaged during a move, customers can file a claim to request compensation for lost or damaged goods. No matter your moving company, they must provide you with a claim form to file upon request. Remember, every claim filed requires a paid bill of lading.
Bulky Article
Large and awkward items like pool tables, gun safes, or large furniture requiring disassembly are deemed bulky articles. Some moving companies may charge extra for moving bulky articles. So, you’ll want to review your items with a potential moving company before thoroughly agreeing to an estimate.
More Questions About Moving?
If you are planning a move, you must understand the key moving terms mentioned above. If you still have questions that come up while planning a move, we understand! Don’t hesitate to reach out to our helpful, certified relocation specialists for more information.
At Element Moving & Storage, we offer white-glove moving services that take the stress out of your next big move. Ready to get your move on our schedule? Contact us today!
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