It may appear that only an experienced lawyer understands all of the moving rights and responsibilities that your relocation may entail. In reality, we should all be aware of the legal implications of a move. It will not only save us time and money, but it will also make the relocation more efficient and smooth.
All moving companies are required to provide you with a booklet titled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When Moving.” The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is in charge of this (FMCSA).
Your Moving Rights and Responsibilities
Read it carefully when you get it from your mover. You will understand what types of insurance a moving company can provide, how to limit a mover’s liability for your belongings, the difference between a binding estimate and a non-binding estimate, and much more. Each mover is required by federal law to provide you with a booklet titled “Rights and Responsibilities,” which you can find a summary of here.
Your Relocation Rights
Movers must provide written estimates, which may be binding. Estimates that are not legally binding should not always be relied upon; actual charges may exceed the estimate.
The mover should not ask you to sign documents that are blank or incomplete.
Before signing, the document should be as complete as possible. With the exception of the actual shipment weight and any other information required to determine the final charges for all services performed, this document contains all relevant shipping information.
When you move, you have the right to be present each time your shipment is weighed and to request a re-weigh.
As an alternative to settling loss or damage claims, moving companies must provide a dispute resolution program.
Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), you may request complaint information about movers from FMCSA; however, you may be charged a fee to obtain this information.
You can request that your moving company provide you with guaranteed pickup and delivery dates.
Moving insurance is not the same as valuation coverage. Before you move, do some research on valuation coverage to find out what it does and does not cover. You have the option of requesting an explanation of the distinction between valuation and actual insurance.
Your Relocation Responsibilities
You should understand the distinction between an actual mover and a household goods broker. A household goods broker only arranges transportation and should not be mistaken for a mover. Trucks are not owned by a household goods broker. You should be aware that a household goods broker usually does not have the authority to provide you with an estimate on behalf of a specific moving company. If a household goods broker provides you with an estimate, it may not be binding on the actual mover, and you may be required to pay the actual charges assessed by the mover. A household broker is not liable for any loss or damage.
When you relocate, your primary responsibility is to avoid disclosing any information about their competitors to the various moving companies.
Before you relocate, make sure you read the FMCSA‘s booklet. There are additional items there that we have not mentioned here, such as requirements for the “Bill of lading,” important information about the delivery receipt, and much more. Don’t forget to check that the moving company you choose provides you with your “Rights and Responsibilities”! Determine your moving company’s DOT number to ensure you are not dealing with a fake mover. Some movers include short or long-term storage as part of their relocation package. If you intend to restyle your new home before moving in, this is a good option.
When it comes to your rights and responsibilities when moving with WoMover, you should not be hesitant. Contact us today and our team of professionals will be happy to assist you in making your upcoming move a reality! We value both your time and your money. Quality service, commitment to our work, and expert care.
