Tampa Moving Company
So, you have finally decided to make that long-awaited move. However, the very idea of having to place your precious belongings and assets in the hands of a bunch of strangers can be extremely nightmarish. The most effective way to avoid falling into the traps of a rogue moving company is to be aware of your moving rights.
The estimate
An estimate is the approximate cost of moving your goods from one place to another. When you approach a moving company with the prospect of hiring them, they generally send an official over to your place of residence, to evaluate the items to be moved. The first thing to note here is, that you should never accept an over-the-phone estimate provided by the movers, as it does not involve a proper evaluation of the goods. Also, it is advisable to always take down the estimate cost in writing by the company. Read all of the provisions mentioned on your estimate, to determine the kind of services that you would be receiving. Never assume that something might be included in your estimate, if it not given in writing.
Usually, the movers offer you a choice between three kinds of estimates namely the nonbinding, binding and guaranteed-not-to-exceed. A nonbinding estimate signifies that the final bill might be, in excess of, or less than the amount previously mentioned in the written document. On the other hand, a binding estimate implies that the final amount will be exactly the same as previously estimated. The guaranteed-not-to-exceed estimate denotes that the final cost can only be the same, or lower than the amount calculated before.
The Bill of lading
A bill of lading is a sort of an agreement between the client and the movers and it lists the details, of the goods to be moved and their owner. It is issued to the client as and when the movers take possession of his goods. The estimate copy along with the bill of lading document must be provided by the movers, before they put the shipment in transit. The client can also request for an additional inventory list that includes the entire list of items being moved. However, you must clarify with the movers, about any extra amount they may be charging for providing you the same.
The Cargo insurance
A moving company is always obliged to provide you with an insurance coverage for the goods they are transferring. The movers must provide you a cargo insurance that is equivalent to the value estimate of your shipment. In the event of a loss or damage to your goods, the company provides you a choice of three separate levels of liability reimbursement, namely minimal reimbursement, depreciated value or replacement value. The type of insurance coverage is decided by the client before the good are put en-route.
In addition to this, the federal law states that all the moving companies are obliged to furnish the client with two specific publications along with the other documents, prior to any interstate moves. The two publications are provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and are titled ‘Ready to Move?’ and ‘Your rights and responsibilities when you move’.
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