When booking interstate movers in Dallas, there are several industry-specific terms you may hear. As every industry has its own jargon, it can sometimes be a bit confusing for consumers, particularly on the first move.
Top professionals will never have a problem explaining the terms they are using. These interstate movers will go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable with the information they are providing and that you fully understand the contract and the services that you are selecting as part of your move.
To help get started, here are some of the basic terms you will hear interstate movers use when developing your quote or estimate.
* Additional services – this is straightforward and includes anything over and above the basic package they offer. Some additional services that are not as obvious include distance from the home the moving truck, stairs in or into a home or apartment, or even requesting the moving company to complete packing.
* Bill of lading – this is your contract as well as information about what is actually on the truck. It will serve as a receipt for the move. The movers will have one copy, and you should be provided with a copy as well.
* Binding estimate – this is an estimate for the move completed by an in-home survey and a representative from the company actually viewing the items to move. The amount you pay, unless you request or there are additional services, will be the total on the bottom of the bill of lading.
* Non-binding estimate – for very small moves or just moving a few items, the company may complete a brief questionnaire with you over the phone instead of an in-home survey. They then present a non-binding estimate which means they give a ballpark figure for the move, but the actual cost will be determined by the weight on the truck. This is not recommended for anything but very small moves as the customer is at risk of a greatly elevated cost if the company is not reputable.
* Not-to-exceed quote – many of the top interstate movers use this option. It is like a binding estimate, but should the weight on the truck be lower than estimate the customer pays the lower amount. The maximum, unless additional services are requested or occur, will not exceed the quoted price.
* Valuation – this is not insurance, but rather a flat rate per pound the moving company offers if items are damaged or broken during the move. It is also possible to have insurance or full-value coverage, but this is a more costly option.
Talk to your Dallas interstate movers and make sure you fully understand the terms used in your contract. Never sign a contract for moving services unless you are clear on what the document actually means.
