Moving terms you should know before your relocation

Moving terminology can be confusing. It can be especially frustrating when you are given all those documents to sign and you do not understand all the terms in the contract. It is important to know what are you signing and agreeing to. Therefore, learning the terminology will help you exactly with that. By learning terms you will not only ease frustration but also you will be better prepared for your move. There are many terms in the moving industry. For that reason, we will introduce you to moving terms you should know before you relocate.

Couple packing boxes and dancing
Learn the terms you need to know when moving and enjoy your move without the added stress.

Estimate – moving terms you should know

The first moving documents that you will be presented with by local movers Los Angeles is an estimate. Your movers will provide you with an estimate of how much your move will cost overall. The estimate will state whether is a binding estimate, non-binding estimate, or not-to-exceed estimate. It is important to know what each estimate means in order to receive the one you think is best for your needs.

Binding estimate

When a moving company guarantees a fixed price estimate based on the weight of your items it is called a binding estimate. The moving company will give you the total price you will pay based on the estimated weight. If you choose this form of the estimate, you will pay that amount no matter what. You will not be changed more even if the weight is higher than estimated. On the other hand, if your items end up weighing less than originally estimated, you won’t pay less.

Non-binding estimate

A non-binding estimate is also based on the weight of your belongings. The difference is that this estimate is not fixed and will most likely change depending on the actual weight of your items. So if the weight is lower than the initial estimate, you will pay less and vice versa. If you don’t own a lot of things and want to relocate in the short term this may be the best option for you.

Not-to-exceed estimate

The binding not-to-exceed estimate is one of the most popular ways to pay for relocation. A Binding not-to-exceed estimate signifies that your price should not go up even if the weight of your move exceeds what was estimated.

Woman explaining moving terms you should know
Ask professionals to explain to you moving terms you should know.

Bill of lading-moving terms you should know

Before you leave your old home the driver will give you a document called a Bill of landing. One of the most important legal documents is the Bill of lading. It is a contract between the moving companies and you and it contains terms specific for your move. This contract guarantees that your household stuff will be transfer from your old home to your new home. Make sure that everything is as you wanted before you sign this document. You should look for a date of delivery, proof that you have purchased insurance, the method of payment, and the inventory of the shipment. This document you will sign before the moving company driver leaves with your belongings.

Full-Service Moving

When moving and packing Los Angeles, you can choose if you want movers to pack all the things for you for your relocations. A moving company can complete the moving process for you from start to finish. This means that the moving company will provide you with packing material. They will also pack, load, transport, and unload your belongings. Also, unpacking and cleaning household items is a must. A moving company can do all those tasks and also dismantling furniture, and reassembling furniture – this is known as Full-Service Moving. This service can cost more. But it is extremely helpful when you have a large home with a lot of items and furniture and little time for relocation.

 

Man packing stack of books in opened cardboard box
Moving can be so easy and simple if you opt for Full-Service!

Additional and Accessorial Services

If you need extra services for your relocation such as stair carries, preparation of your devices, exercise devices, or the transport of a specialty large item such as a piano or pool table it is called additional and accessories service. It refers to charges in addition to transporting your belongings. Ask your residential movers Los Angeles about the services. This service is chargeable extra. If you have a large piano for example this service will be of great help to you. You can also ask for outside professional and it will appear in your Bill of Landing under the term Advance Charges.

Valuation

It is sometimes called a declared valuation of how much the mover and you say the shipment is worth. This determines the liability of the carrier in case of loss or damage, with some exceptions. Any damage caused by riots, strikes, or extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes and tornadoes will limit liability. Before shipment, you will be asked to declare the total monetary value of all of your items. This is the maximum amount that the moving company will be liable for.

Inventory sheet

When you move you don’t want anything to be lost or damaged. That is why it is important to have an inventory sheet. Look at this document carefully. This contract states the condition of your items. If you do not agree with the assessment of the movers, you can talk to them about it and come to a solution together before signing the Sheet. When your goods are upon delivery you will receive the Customer Check-Off Sheet. Write off each item separately when the moving services Los Angeles unloads them from the truck. In this document, write down whether there was any damage and whether all your belongings have reached your new home.

These are some of the most important terms you need to know. Therefore, you will not have any doubts when you sign these numerous contracts. You can enjoy your relocation stress-free now that you are familiar with the moving terms you should know before relocating.