Top 10 Moving Terms You Need to Know

Moving is something that usually happens once every couple of years. Get up-to-date on moving lingo before you deal with moving companies, so when moving day comes you can drop some of these terms and let the moving company, whether they be long distance or local movers, know you are in-the-know.

Accessorial charges
This term is used to describe any charges for additional services the movers might do, such supplying moving boxes, packing books and other high-volume inventory, unpacking and extra pick-ups. This charge could also include additional fees for long hauls. If you have any questions or issues with these charges, you should call the moving company’s main office before signing the bill of lading.

Bill of lading
This is the actual contract between you and the moving company for moving truck transportation of household or business goods. Make sure you understand and agree with all statements before you sign it as it is a binding contract.

Claim
This is a statement that indicates the damage or loss of your household goods that occurred during the move. It’s important to submit your claim as soon as possible to ensure that the missing goods or damage is covered.

Consignee/consignor
The consignee is the person receiving the shipment of goods. The consignor is the person at the pick up point where the move originates. In most cases, the person moving is both the consignor and the consignee.

Designation agent
This is the person from the moving company located at the final destination who provides details on the move, such as arrival date and present location of movers.

Line haul charges
These are the basic charges for long distance moves, calculated by mileage and weight of your shipment.

Operating authority
This is the certification issued by a state or federal governmental department authorizing a mover or carrier to move household goods between designated geographical areas. Make sure your movers have one of these certifications before you sign a bill of lading with them.

Reweigh
Once your belongings are loaded into the truck, the movers will travel to a weigh-in station close by and reweigh the move. Your total bill is then tweaked to reflect the actual weight of the move, versus the estimated weight of the move. For this reason, having an in-home estimate done is crucial.

Standard coverage
This refers to the free coverage a customer will receive for damaged goods, which is not much, typical amount is 60 cents per pound. This coverage is a bare minimum and should not be relied upon to cover you for any significant damage. When moving expensive furniture or electronics, it is wise to buy the additional insurance. Remember, your LED TV might weigh 10 pounds, but it costs much more than $6 to replace.

Transit insurance
Describes the insurance above and beyond the standard that covers your household belongings while they are in transit between your old property and your new one. Check what kind of coverage you have before you move to ensure you're properly insured.