Hiring a professional moving company is a big step toward a smooth relocation, but before you sign on the dotted line, it's crucial to understand your moving contract. A poorly written or misleading contract can lead to unexpected costs, damaged belongings, or legal headaches. To protect yourself, here are seven key things to look for—and avoid—when reviewing a moving contract.
1. Verify Licensing and Insurance Details
A legitimate moving company should provide proof of licensing and insurance in the contract. For interstate moves, check that the company has a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For local moves, verify state licensing requirements.
🚫 Red Flag: If the contract lacks licensing details or the company hesitates to provide proof, it’s a sign they may not be reputable.
2. Understand the Type of Estimate (Binding vs. Non-Binding)
Moving estimates typically fall into three categories:
🚫 Red Flag: Beware of suspiciously low estimates—this could be a bait-and-switch tactic where the final bill ends up much higher.
3. Check for Hidden Fees and Extra Charges
Your contract should clearly outline all potential extra charges so there are no surprises. Common additional fees include:
🚫 Red Flag: If the contract is vague about additional charges or doesn’t provide a breakdown, ask for clarification before signing.
4. Review the Delivery Window and Liability for Delays
Unlike local moves, interstate relocations often come with a delivery window rather than a set date. Your contract should specify:
🚫 Red Flag: If the company refuses to commit to a delivery window or won’t provide a written agreement, you may face long delays without recourse.
5. Understand Your Liability and Valuation Coverage
Moving companies offer different levels of valuation coverage (which is not the same as insurance). Your contract should specify:
🚫 Red Flag: If the contract doesn’t mention valuation options or automatically assumes the lowest coverage, ask for details before signing.
6. Read the Cancellation and Refund Policy
Life happens, and sometimes you need to reschedule or cancel your move. Your contract should clearly outline:
🚫 Red Flag: Companies that require large, non-refundable deposits may be a scam. Most reputable movers only request a small deposit or no upfront payment at all.
7. Ensure a Complete and Signed Contract
Before you sign, make sure the contract includes:
🚫 Red Flag: Never sign incomplete or blank documents—some dishonest movers may fill in extra charges later.
Protect Yourself With a Strong Moving Contract
Understanding your moving contract is the best way to avoid unexpected fees, delays, and disputes. By carefully reviewing licensing details, estimate types, hidden fees, delivery windows, liability coverage, and cancellation policies, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Choosing a trusted, fully licensed moving company with clear, upfront contracts is key to avoiding headaches along the way. Joyce Van Lines prioritizes transparency and professionalism in every move, giving you peace of mind from start to finish. Contact us today for a free quote and experience a hassle-free relocation!
