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Prior to your move you will be given a lengthy contract referred to as the “Agreement for Service” which details the limits of liability of the moving company. You will also be given a booklet titled “Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods”, published by the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC). In addition to containing practical advice this booklet outlines the liability of your mover. Following is a listing of the contents and a summary of the more relevant portions.
How to Choose a mover:
Choose only a licensed mover. Every licensed mover has a license number, known as a “Cal T” number. A referral from someone who has had a good experience from a moving company is a good indication that you will have a similar experience. However it is possible that you will not have the same personnel on your move.
Maximum Rates:
Your mover cannot charge hourly rates higher than those established by the PUC. These rates vary between areas of California. However these rates are so high that a mover charging them would not be competitive, and it is unlikely you would encounter a mover who exceeds these rates.
Estimates and Costs:
Any verbal estimate is not binding. A written estimate is binding, and the mover cannot exceed that price unless additional service is required. Additional service could be packing when the person moving planned to pack but did not complete it.
Inventory Report:
Inventories should be done when goods are moved into storage but are not performed when goods are immediately moved to a new residence unless it is so requested. Keep in mind that inventories require the mover to list every item and its condition prior to being moved and after it is moved. This is a very time consuming procedure and adds significantly to the cost.
Pickup and Delivery Dates:
Weekends, particularly the last weekend of the month, are the busiest time for movers so if you are contemplating a weekend move be sure to make arrangements ten days to two weeks in advance. If possible try to schedule your move outside of these busy times.
Packing and Other Preparations:
About 75 per cent of moves are packed by the shipper (the party that is being moved) simply because it is less costly. However you should be aware that in the event of breakage you will have to show that the damage occurred because of the mover’s negligent handling and not your packing. Advice on packing can be found on our packing page.
Agreement for Service:
This is the title of the contract between the shipper (party who is hiring service) and the carrier (moving company). It must be signed prior to the service performed.
Weighing Your Goods:
This is relevant only on long distance moves.
Paying for Your Move:
Discuss the required form of payment with your carrier prior to your move. Elephant Moving typically requires payment for materials at the time of purchase, and payment for moving service at the time the service is performed.
Hazardous Materials Not to be Shipped:
Your carrier cannot transport hazardous materials as defined by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation. Some of these materials most common to household use are as follows:
- Combustible Liquids: alcohol(rubbing), lubricants(motor oil), anti-freeze.
- Corrosives: acid, drain cleaner, film development acids, bleach, batteries, swimming pool purifiers.
- Explosives: fireworks, small arms ammunition, flash bulbs.
- Flammables: lighter fluid, matches, wood oil stains, non latex paint or varnish, paint removers, butane, propane, gasoline, signal flares, charcoal briquettes.
- Compressed gasses: aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, scuba diving tanks, oxygen tanks.
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