Are movers held responsible for charging according to the estimates that they give for moving household goods?

This depends on whether the estimate is binding or non-binding. The mover's estimate, which must be in writing, must clearly indicate whether the estimate is binding, non-binding or guaranteed-not-to-exceed.

I have heard the term, "non-binding moving estimate". What is this?

A non-binding estimate is an approximation of the final moving cost and is NOT binding. Movers base this on estimating the weight after physically reviewing the household goods to be transported. They may use a furniture chart on the back of the estimate. The non-binding estimate - which is in writing -- should be fairly accurate covering the charges for moving the goods plus any additional services requested such as packing the items. Movers will base the final charges on the actual weight-based or volume-based rate of the goods and their customary rates for additional services.

What is the 110% Provision/Rule?

If the final moving charges are more than the estimated amount (assuming you had a written non-binding estimate), the mover has to deliver your goods for payment of the estimated amount plus 10% of that amount, deferring the balance due on the charges for 30 days.

What is a binding estimate?

A binding estimate (or set price) is required to be in writing and indicate that that estimate is binding on the mover. So you will pay this price even if the shipment weighs more or less than the estimate. The 110% rule does not apply to binding estimates; total charges are paid upon delivery of the goods. Should you add items or ask for additional services, the mover may void the estimate or revise it. Movers will then either add charges to the original estimate or recomputed it. You should ask the mover if the binding estimate precludes you from taking advantage of any other option the mover offers, such as a binding percentage discount from the mover's transportation rate. Being eligible for one or more of the mover's options may enable you to reduce your total charges.

The mover may void the binding estimate if the moving does not commence within a specified time period, usually 60 or 90 days from the signing of the estimate. After the shipment is loaded on the van, the mover cannot increase the binding estimate or withdraw it because of its miscalculation of the estimated weight of the shipment.

What is a "guaranteed not to exceed" estimate?

The guaranteed not to exceed estimate is a type of version of the binding estimate. The shipment is actually weighed before the estimate is given. In a binding estimate the shipment is not actually weighed; a constructed weight is used and in this case the 110% provision does not apply.

What if the mover does not pick up or deliver my goods according to the schedule on the order for service?

Movers must meet the "reasonable dispatch" requirements. If the dates are not met, a mover may file an inconvenience or delay claim with the mover and list lodging and food expenses for all the days past the last day of the pickup and/or delivery dates.

If I pack my belongings myself, is the mover still responsible if something is lost or broken? Does the mover have the right to repack my goods?

The mover has the right to repack cartons that it believes are not packed properly. Also, the mover is liable for any loss or damage caused during transit unless the only reason for the loss or damage was due to:

an act of God,
an act or omission of the shipper,
an act of the public enemy,
an act of the public authority,
inherent vice.

Also, if the mover had the opportunity to determine that the goods were improperly packed originally and yet still accepted them for transporting in that condition, the mover is responsible for loss or damage to the goods. The mover is obligated to refuse goods that are improperly packed.

Should I be present during the loading of my furniture?

You should definitely oversee the loading of your furniture and should not leave while it is being loaded. You should examine the mover's description of your furniture on the inventory and initial for any chipped or marred items. Do an inventory of your goods against the mover's list and make sure that all the furniture and boxes that you are taking are on the list.

For further information from the Household Goods Guide, click here to view the full publication:

Also, feel free to contact us with questions about the Las Vegas area and/or to use the Free MLS SearchFree Las Vegas Real Estate MLS Search to view available Las Vegas homes and condos.