Moving Glossary

Additional Services - Non-standard services such as appliance servicing, unpacking, packing or carrying items up and down stairs due to your request that could mean more additional charges.

Advanced Charges - These are charges charged by a third party for their service at your request. Advanced charges usually are paid for by the moving company and then added at the end on the Bill of Lading.

Agent - A local moving company that is authorized to act on behalf of a national company.

Bill of Lading - This is also known as the contract between the moving company and the customer. The Bill of Lading is also used as a receipt at the end of the move. Please make sure you understand and agree to all the terms before signing the Bill of Lading.

Binding Estimate - A flat price quote given by the mover based on the inventory and size of move. This estimate is binding meaning no matter how long the move takes, the binding estimate is the amount due. Typically binding estimates are only given when a mover does an onsite estimate.

Non-Binding Estimate - An estimate quote based on the size of the move and the mover’s previous moves similar to yours. These estimates are subject to change. Be careful of low non-binding quotes from movers. This is a marketing tactic to capture your attention.

Carrier - The mover you are using for your move.

C.O.D. - This stands for cash on delivery which means payment is due at the time when delivery arrives.

Expedited Service - An agreement by the moving company to transport and move goods by a set date for a higher rate for their service.

Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery Service - Non-standard service where pickup and delivery services are guaranteed by a certain date. This premium service is often backed by the mover with reimbursements for any delays.

High Value Article - Items that have a value of $100 or more per pound.

Inventory - A detailed list of all your household items listing the quantity and descriptive condition of each item.

Linehaul Charges - A term used in billing for a long distance move service. A linehual charge is computed by taking the mileage of the move along with the total weight of your belongings. This charge does not include any fees that are included in the additional charge section of your bill.

Local Moving - Typically means any move that is 100 miles to the same state and is often calculated on a hourly rate. A local move is regulated by the state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) or some sort of regulatory body.

Long Distance - There are two types of long distance moves: Intra-State and Inter-State. An intra-state move is a move that is within the same state but more than 100 miles. An inter-state move is a move from one state to another state that is billed by the weight of the shipment along with the distance in miles. These moves are regulated by the US Department of Transportation.

Long Carry Charge - Another one of those charges that can increase your total bill. This charge is commonly used when the distance is considered excessive from where your item is and the mover’s truck.

Order for Service - A legal document that authorizes the moving company to move your belongings.

Peak Season Rates - A rate commonly used during the summer months when moving.

Stair Carry Charge - Extra charge that is used when movers need to carry items up and down stairs.