As you get ready to move, you may run into some terms you don’t understand. Not sure what a Bill of Lading is? Want more information about storage-in-transit services? You’re in the right place. Below you’ll find a handy guide with need-to-know moving terminology. If for some reason you can’t find what you’re looking for, contact our customer service team!
A
Accessorial (Additional) Services
Services, such as unpacking or stair carries, that you request to be performed (or are necessary because of landlord requirements or other special circumstances). Charges for these services are usually in addition to the transportation charges depending on the type of move. If it is a local move in which services are charged by the hour, these fees may not apply.
Access Fee
A fee charged to a shipper to access their goods while in storage with a mover. Sometimes known as a platform fee.
Advanced Charges
Charges for specific services performed by someone other than the movers. A professional, craftsman, or another third party may perform these services at your request. For example, having a pool table dismantled by a third party service provider. The mover may pay for these services on your behalf and add the charges to your Bill of Lading charges. Or the mover may arrange for service on your behalf and ask the service provider to collect directly from the shipper.
Agent
A local moving company authorized to act on behalf of a national van line. The agent may handle the booking, origin, hauling, and/or destination services.
For example, incorporated in 1981, Sea Cure Moving, Inc. is an independently owned moving and storage company, and in 1987 became an Agent for Bekins Van Lines. This allows Sea Cure Moving to perform interstate moving under the Van Lines interstate authority. When Sea Cure crosses a state line it is under the operating authority and Motor Carrier number of Bekins Van Lines / The Wheaton Group filed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The Van Lines provides regulatory, background, and safety oversight to ensure Agents follow all FMCSA Regulations. This is beneficial to the Consumer since Sea Cure Moving has the support of a nationwide network of over 350 agents across the country and an additional umbrella of oversight.
Agreed Delivery Date
The agreed delivery date or dates you contract the mover to deliver your goods. The agreed timeframe can range from one day to a few weeks depending on the characteristics of your move. If moving long distance, there is usually a delivery ‘spread’ or window of dates your goods may arrive based on the weight of your shipment and the distance it’s traveling. If you are moving interstate but it is a shorter distance, or your shipment is the only one on board the truck, the delivery window may be one to two days. In a local move, the delivery date may be the same date or a selected future date depending on the timeline of your move. Your Moving Consultant and Planner will discuss the transit times with you prior to scheduling your move.
Agreed Pick-up Date
The pickup date, also referred to as the loading date, is the agreed upon day or days the mover is obligated to pick up and load goods. The agreed pick-up date can range from one day to several depending on the needs of the move. Sea Cure Moving’s Consultant and Planner will solidify these logistics as you schedule your move.
When moving long distances, some Carriers or brokers may offer multiple days for a pickup to allow the interstate Driver flexibility to arrive. In most cases, due to closings, lease agreements, travel plans or other commitments, a Shipper needs to be out of residence on a certain day. Whether a move is local or long distance, Sea Cure Moving always schedules a guaranteed pickup to ensure goods are loaded on the timetable required.
American Trucking Association Moving & Storage Conference (ATA MSC)
The American Trucking Association is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. In October of 2020, the ATA Moving & Storage Conference (MSC) was established within the ATA to unify the household goods moving industry with the federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils. The ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation’s freight. The ATA Moving & Storage Conference is the leading national organization representing the household goods moving companies and industry suppliers as well as various state moving and storage associations. The Conference works on consumer education, public safety, mover programs and certifications, and advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.
Air Ride
This is the suspension system used on trailers and tractors instead of conventional springs, where the vehicle is supported and rides on rubber cylinders filled with compressed air for a safer ride. This helps decrease the chances of damage to goods by reducing the stress in transit (a less bumpy ride than other freight-hauling methods.) Sea Cure Moving uses moving vans and trailers with air ride systems to benefit a smoother ride with added protection.
Appliance Service by Third Party
The preparation of major electrical appliances to make them safe for shipment. This may include securing the drum on a washing machine or disconnecting the water line on a refrigerator. Charges for these services may be in addition to the transportation or line-haul charges. Your Sea Cure Moving Consultant will provide details and resources to assist.
Articles of Extraordinary Value
Items included in a shipment that are valued at more than $100 per pound. As defined by the mover’s service agreement, it includes but not limited to jewelry, fine art, documented antiques and other high value items. These may be more contemporary collectibles such as limited-edition sneakers or high-end accessories. Such items typically have an additional insurance rider on them. These items should be disclosed to the mover to ensure they are protected accordingly. A mover is not liable for the actual value of these items unless they are declared, and proper insurance or valuation is assigned and purchased beyond Basic Liability movers are required to provide. Also referred to as items of extraordinary value. If your shipment includes high value items, please discuss this with your Sea Cure Moving Consultant in advance of your move.
Auto Inventory
A form used when relocating an automobile, motorcycle or boat that lists the vehicle’s make, model, miles and existing interior and exterior condition at both origin and destination. Can also be referred to as motor vehicle inventory. Please note if shipping a vehicle along with your household goods, the mover is not liable for articles left inside the vehicle as they are not inventoried as separate items. There are options as to how to ship your vehicle; please discuss your needs with your Sea Cure Moving Consultant to determine what method is best for you.
Auxiliary Service
Commonly referred to as shuttle service. Use of a smaller vehicle to provide service when the residence or building is not accessible to the mover’s normal equipment. Examples include situations such as a road or driveway that physically restricts a large truck, a low bridge or bridge unable to support the weight of a large truck, or the inability to park the moving van within a reasonable distance of the pickup or the delivery residence or building. Shuttle service involves offloading the goods from the original equipment and reloading them to a smaller vehicle. Depending on the weight or capacity of the shipment, this could involve several trips with the smaller vehicle. There may be additional charges for shuttle service depending on the location and type of move.
One of the benefits of choosing Sea Cure Moving, your local Bekins Agent, is if a shuttle is required at delivery during an interstate move, the cost is absorbed by the Van Lines and the Shipper is not charged.
B
Bill of Lading
The receipt for goods and an addendum to the contract. The signature at origin acknowledges that all goods have been loaded on the moving van and "released to the carrier" and the signature at
destination acknowledges that all items have been received in good condition unless exceptions are noted in writing.
It is your responsibility to understand the terms and conditions of the Bill of Lading before you sign it. If you do not understand something on the Bill of Lading, do not sign it until your mover addresses your concerns.
When moving across state lines, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires the mover to present and collect signatures on the Bill of Lading at least three days in advance. The partially completed copy should be provided to you whether digitally or before the mover leaves the residence at origin. The Bill of Lading is an important document. It is important to communicate changes to your Mover in advance, as this may cause changes to the final Bill of Lading.
Booking Agent
In interstate moving, this is the local mover acting as the Van Lines agent who prepares the estimate of cost from the information obtained during a visual survey. The booking agent does not necessarily have to be located at or near the origin. When the booking agent is located at the origin, they will also be the origin agent and perform the visual survey.
For example, when Sea Cure Moving arranges your visual survey and provides a quote, we are the booking agent. When we pack you and pick you up, we are the origin agent and when our employee Drivers transport your goods, we are also the hauler. Sea Cure Moving hauls about 98% of the moves we book. On occasion we may use another Bekins network qualified Driver to haul a shipment if it accommodates a customer’s timeline or is traveling to a remote route. As you interview Movers, it is an important question to ask if the Mover is primarily a booker, or how involved they are directly in performing and controlling the work performed. Not all ‘movers’ haul their own work.
Bingo Sheet
A form that allows a Driver, Mover Manager or Customer (Shipper) to easily check off inventoried items as they are delivered. It summarizes the inventory numbers for a shipment so they can be checked off as the goods are delivered. If it is a large shipment, it is helpful to have a partner at delivery to help check off items together - one person can call out the inventory number on the article, and the other can check it off (like ‘Bingo’). Also called a check-off sheet. A detailed inventory is required on interstate moves, and intrastate moves coming to storage. Bingo Sheets are not required for intrastate direct moves since an inventory is not always generated.
Broker
Brokers are intermediaries between the customer and the moving company. Brokers advertise moving services and shop the moves to various moving companies to bid on. Brokers will usually request a deposit upon booking a date and then pass the customer onto the mover. Brokers do not have control or authority over the move. Legal brokers should be licensed and registered and are required to disclose to customers they are brokers.
Prior to the internet and social media, brokers were typically industry professionals who transitioned to brokering sales using their service knowledge and connections. Today, brokers are typically viewed in a negative context since the internet and social media space is cluttered with illegal brokers, misleading marketers, scam artists or even criminal organizations selling moves using the broker format. This is advertised often as ‘moving services’ and the Consumer does not often realize they are engaging with a broker or that the mover is a separate entity until the actual move since all the paperwork is done with the broker. Sea Cure Moving does not recommend using a broker unless they are a licensed professional with a verifiable history in the industry. If a consumer needs someone to perform the logistical work of arranging moving services, accredited Move Managers are available that the Consumer pays directly for their time. For more information on making sure you are working with a licensed mover and not a broker, visit our Consumer Rights page.
Bulky Article
To ensure safe transportation, some articles included in a shipment (cars, boats, motorcycles, hot tubs, kayaks, etc.) require extra handling and/or blocking. There is usually an extra charge for such items to compensate the mover for the difficulty and additional labor and preparation of loading and unloading such articles, and their unusual bulk or low weight density. In some cases, an additional "weight additive" is applicable if charges are by weight.
C
Carrier
The moving company holding the operating authority required to transport household goods. When Sea Cure Moving takes shipments across state lines, they are the hauling agent and Bekins Van Lines is the Carrier since Sea Cure is operating under Bekin’s Interstate Motor Carrier number and authority. When moving within the State, Sea Cure Moving is operating under its own authority through the State of New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and is the Carrier.
Carrier Packing (CP)
CP is used extensively on the inventory to identify cartons that have been supplied and packed by the mover and not the customer, known as Carrier Packed.
Cash on Delivery (COD)
Transportation for an individual customer for which payment is required at the time of delivery at the destination residence (or warehouse) prior to the mover’s relinquishing possession. Payment is required in acceptable funds as noted on the carrier’s estimate, such as cash, money order, cashier's check or credit card (pending a prior credit card approval process). Personal checks are not accepted for payment of C.O.D. charges.
Certified Funds
A form of guaranteed funds in which the money is transferred internally in advance from an account holder’s funds and held by the bank to be transferred to the payee in the form of a certified check or bank cashier’s check to verify and earmark funds are there for payment. Certified funds hold almost the same liquidity as cash, but it is safer for Drivers to travel with, since banks will only deposit the check to the payee.
Certified Scale
Any scale designed for weighing motor vehicles, including trailers or semi-trailers not attached to a tractor, and certified by an authorized scale inspector and licensing authority. A certified scale may also be a platform or warehouse type scale that is properly inspected and certified. A weight-based move is measured by acquiring a tare (light) weight without the shipment on board and a gross (heavy) weight of the truck with the shipment on board at a certified scale.
Claim
Shipper's statement of loss or damage to any household goods while they were in the care, custody and control of the carrier or its agent. When moving within the State of New Jersey, claims must be filed in writing within ninety days of delivery. When moving across State lines, a Shipper is given nine months to file a claim, provided the Carrier’s liability does not cease due to circumstances such as delivering into self-storage or tendered to a third party. Property claims must be reported on the day the move is taking place.
COI
A COI or Certificate of Insurance is issued by the mover or carrier’s insurance company or broker and verifies the existence of an insurance policy. When moving in or out of multi-family dwellings, residences with common areas, or commercial buildings, the property management or association may request a COI with the owners and adjacent entities listed as the Certificate Holder to ensure protection from liability such as workplace accidents or property damage.
If you are moving in or out of a residence in which there is an association or property management, check to see if a Certificate of Insurance is required and let your mover know the requirements and Certificate Holder information. This is also why it is important to hire a mover that is licensed, registered and insured. Only a legal mover with adequate insurance will be able to produce a Certificate of Insurance that the property management requires.
Commercial Goods/ Special Commodities
Generic term for any goods other than household goods as defined by the Public Movers Act (PMA).
Commercial Shipper
Any person who is named as the consignor or consignee in a Bill of Lading contract who is not the owner of the goods being transported; this person assumes the responsibility for payment of the transportation and other tariff charges for the account of the beneficial owner of the goods. The beneficial owner of the goods is normally an employee of the consignor and/or consignee. Learn more about corporate relocation.
Consignee
The person to whom the shipment is to be delivered. A shipper may assign another legal adult as a Consignee to assume responsibility for receiving the articles.
Consignor
The person at origin who arranges for the transportation of the shipment. The Shipper may assign a Consignor at origin to act on their behalf to release the goods to the mover or carrier. The Consignor or assigned Move Manager must be a legal adult who is willing to assume decision making responsibility and sign off for tendering the goods to the Driver at origin.
Crating
Referring to the process of building a custom wood crate for the purpose of properly protecting certain items during transport.
Cube/Cubic feet
A measurement of the capacity or cubic space of articles, a truck or container to plan for spacing. Cube and density are used to estimate weight when calculating pricing for an interstate move. Cubic feet (or cube) are used to provide a flat rate for intrastate moving, or storage, based on the space the goods occupy.
Cube Sheet
A document used to determine the cubic feet that furniture, appliances, cartons and miscellaneous articles occupy in the moving van. By converting the cubic feet into pounds, an estimated weight is acquired that is used in calculating the estimated cost for a weight-based move, most commonly interstate moves. Also referred to as a Table of Measurements. The initial inventory list that is generated during the visual survey and pricing period is referred to as the Cube Sheet since it provides a list of articles, their estimated cube and weight.
CWT
An abbreviation for “per 100 pounds of specified weight.” Per-hundredweight. Used as a scale of measurement when pricing and rating a shipment.
D
Declared Valuation
The shipper's declaration of the value, declared prior to moving, for the possessions being moved, thereby establishing the carrier's maximum liability for loss or damage to the shipment. Valuation should be discussed in advance of the move. In local or intrastate moving, it is declared on the Order for Service. In interstate moving, it is declared on the interstate Bill of Lading.
Delivery Charge / Fee
A charge for delivery of packing material.
Department of Transportation (DOT)
The federal agency that governs the interstate transportation industry, including movers of household goods.
Interstate movers are required to have a USDOT number, which is a unique identifier used to collect and monitor safety and compliance of a company. Apart from Federal regulations, many states require their intrastate commercial vehicle registrants to have a USDOT number including New Jersey. For further information about DOT compliance visit the FMCSA.
Destination Agent
During an interstate move, this is the Bekins agent located at or near your destination who may support the hauler and fellow agents by providing necessary services at the end of moving.
One of the benefits of selecting a mover affiliated with a major Van Lines is the support network and resources they offer each other across the country. Sea Cure Moving has been an award-winning agent for Bekins Van Lines since 1987.
Disassembled by Owner
Items designated to be disassembled by the owner or a third-party service rather than by the moving company. Some items such as playsets, pool tables, and computers that require extensive or specialized labor to prepare to ship and would not be part of the mover’s basic transportation charges. The mover may offer additional labor or third-party specialists at a cost to disassemble and prepare these goods for shipment. See also third-party service.
Dispatcher
Assumes the task of communicating the route of a shipment to Drivers and agents, making sure that instructions are carried out accordingly. Shippers (customers) may receive communications and updates from a dispatcher outside of 24 hours of the move, since the Driver is typically driving and working.
E
Elevator Carry
A charge to compensate for the additional labor required to move a shipment by way of an elevator. This charge is not applicable on in-state moves priced by the hour.
If elevator access is required at either origin or destination, it is best to let your mover know in advance, so the appropriate labor is planned. Also check with your building to see if a reservation is required and if there are usage restrictions or rules as this may impact your move plan and cost.
If moving interstate, Bekins is one of the few carriers that do not charge the Shipper (customer) for elevators, stairs, long carries and shuttles at destination,
Estimate: Non-binding
The mover or agent’s approximation of the cost based on the estimated time and labor involved, weight or cubic feet of the shipment and the accessorial services requested. The final cost will be based upon actual services performed.
If the move is interstate, this is based on the actual weight of the shipment, the services provided and the tariff provisions in effect. To verify the weight of a shipment, the driver will weigh the trailer prior to loading the shipment and then reweigh the trailer once the shipment has been loaded.
This is a common method of pricing since it is measurable by a certified scale, and suggested for midsize to large shipments, and a commonsense choice if the customer anticipates last minute changes in the inventory after the estimate. Even with non-binding pricing, there is a 10% rule in effect for accuracy which applies to the items and services listed. The customer should communicate any major changes to their mover in advance so planning can adjust to accommodate the revised capacity on board and advise the customer of any change in estimated cost.
Your Sea Cure Moving Consultant can advise what pricing method may best apply to your shipment.
Estimate: Firm-binding
An agreement between the mover or agent and the customer is that the cost of the move will be a specific dollar amount based on the estimated weight or cube of the shipment and the specific services requested.
With an interstate shipment, if the actual weight of the shipment is different than the mover or agent anticipated, the price of the move does not change. However, adding items not surveyed by the mover or agent at the time of the estimate or adding services not discussed at the time of the estimate could increase the cost of the move, as a binding quote is based on the items and services listed in the estimate as reviewed during the visual survey. The mover may charge more or less than their tariff rates when offering a binding estimate.
This pricing method is advisable for smaller to mid-size shipments in which the customer does not expect changes in inventory or additional services such as packing, from the time of the estimate and loading day. It is also sensible to use this pricing method if the estimated shipment weight falls under the minimum shipment weight for service.
Your Sea Cure Moving consultant can advise what pricing method may best apply to your shipment.
Estimate: Option-binding
In interstate moving, an agreement between the mover or agent and the customer is that the cost of the move will be no more than a specific dollar amount based on the estimated weight of the shipment and the specific services requested.
If the anticipated weight of the shipment is less than estimated, then the customer’s bill is reduced by the amount of the cost associated with the weight difference between the estimated and actual weight. There still are shipment weight minimums to meet in this pricing method and the minimum would apply in a case if the actual weight was under.
The customer will not pay more than the cost associated with the estimated weight, even if the actual weight exceeds the estimate. However, adding items not surveyed by the agent at the time of the estimate or adding services not discussed at the time of the estimate could increase the cost of the move.
This pricing method is suggested with larger shipments when the customer has an estimate that includes all the undecided items and anticipates a decrease in what will be going on board or a decrease in packing services. This would also apply for large shipments that contain a good deal of items with higher weight variables.
Your Sea Cure Moving Consultant can advise what pricing method may best apply to your shipment.
Estimated Weight
The approximate weight of a shipment determined by a conversion measurement of cubic feet and density.
A visual survey is required of movers whenever possible, to accurately assess an estimated cube and weight of the shipment.
Expedited Service
In interstate moving, an agreement with the mover to perform transportation by a set date in exchange for charges based on a higher minimum weight.
Extra Delivery
A portion of a shipment unloaded at a location other than the destination address indicated on the Bill of Lading. Also referred to as an extra stop. An extra charge is assessed if the move is not rated hourly.
Extra Pick Up
A portion of a shipment loaded at a location other than the origin address indicated on the Bill of Lading. Also referred to as an extra stop. An extra charge is assessed if the move is not rated hourly.
F
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). An organization established within the Department of Transportation to regulate the safe operation requirements for commercial vehicle drivers, carriers, vehicles and vehicle equipment. 1-888- DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238) is a toll-free number established to file complaints against a household goods moving company and other regulated operators.
Flight Charge
An extra charge for carrying items up or down flights of stairs. Also called a stair carry. Not applicable on in-state moves priced at an hourly rate.
Fuel Surcharge
In interstate moving, the moving company’s tariff provides for a percentage adjustment to the transportation charge (and SIT Pickup and Delivery) to aid in recovery of the increased cost of fuel. The surcharge, which can change twice monthly, is based upon the national average cost of diesel, as reported by the Department of Energy U.S.
In intrastate moving, it is the allowable surcharge provided by the mover’s state tariff to adjust for the fluctuating cost of fuel, rather than re-filing base transportation rates. In N.J., it is usually a flat rate.
G
Gross Weight
Weight of the moving truck with all the contracted goods loaded, including fuel and necessary equipment, except the driver and the crew. A weight ticket is issued by the certified scale and signed by the weighmaster. Also referred to as the heavy weight.
H
Handling Fee
A fee charged by the carrier for placement of goods into and/or out of storage. A handling fee can also be applied to heavy or bulky items that require special handling or equipment such as, but not limited to pianos, safes, hot tubs, boats, motorcycles, boats, vehicles, or riding lawn mowers.
Hauling Agent
In an interstate move, the Bekins agent who owns the van (truck) assigned by the van line to transport your household goods from origin to destination.
Sea Cure Moving is a ‘hauler’, meaning we employ interstate drivers, own equipment and dispatch the majority of the interstate moves we book. We also have access to the reliable network of Bekins Van Lines drivers. Not all movers haul interstate.
Helper
A person hired by the van operator or agent to assist in the loading and unloading of goods. Sea Cure Moving directly employs qualified and cleared (background checked) helpers and requires all outer region helper labor to be certified.
High Value Article
Items included in a shipment that are valued at more than $100 per pound. These items should be disclosed with the mover in advance to ensure they are protected accordingly. Also referred to as items of extraordinary value. Learn more about full replacement value protection.
Household Goods (HHG)
Personal goods or property considered as part of a household dwelling - personal effects, fixtures, equipment, stock and supplies - when it is put into storage or when it is transported between dwellings.
Household Goods Descriptive Inventory
The detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Also referred to as an inventory.
I
Individual Shipper
The individual requesting movement of a shipment and paying the transportation charges.
Interstate Move
The relocation of goods in the United States from a place in one state to a place in a different state.
Insurance
A certificate of insurance, sometimes known as an advice of coverage, is issued to the shipper through the mover’s insurance carrier, stating in brief the terms of the policy. This is a document separate and distinct from the estimate, order for service and bill of lading, and is required by law.
Insurance is not the same as additional Valuation, which is the declared value of the shipment when tendered to the carrier if offered by the carrier and listed in the carrier’s tariff.
Intrastate Move
The relocation of goods within one state that never crosses state lines or includes a segment outside of that same state. Intrastate moves are NOT regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Regulations for intrastate moves vary from state to state. In New Jersey they are regulated by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Public Movers and Warehouse Division) at 1-973-504-6442.
Inventory
The detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Also referred to as a household goods descriptive inventory.
Items of Extraordinary Value
Items included in a shipment that are valued at more than $100 per pound. These items should be disclosed with the mover to ensure they are protected accordingly. Also referred to as a high value article. Learn more about full replacement value protection.
L
Leave Over
When articles to be shipped are left behind due to insufficient space on the primary van. An additional van(s) is then utilized for transportation and delivery. Also referred to as an overflow.
Sea Cure Moving reviews your inventory repeatedly prior to your move to ensure proper capacity is planned for your move. Be sure to communicate any major changes to your intended inventory, especially additions, to your move coordinator well in advance to avoid any leave overs.
This is another reason to hire professional movers who are experienced at ‘road loading’ for long distance travel.
Light Weight
The weight of a truck before a shipment is loaded, including all essential loading equipment and packing materials. Also referred to as the tare weight.
Line Haul
In interstate moving, the charges for the vehicle transportation portion of your relocation. These charges apply in addition to the accessorial service charges.
Loading
The process in which the goods being shipped are arranged inside the moving van. Road loading in HHG (household goods) refers to a more intensive loading process where all negative space is utilized, and the shipment is carefully balanced and braced for the rigors of long haul transportation.
Local Move
A move within a particular geographical area like a town or district instead of a state or country.
Long Carry (Distance Carry)
A charge assessed when a shipment must be moved more than 75 feet from the door of the parked moving van to the entrance of the residence. Not applicable on moves rated hourly.
M
Motor Vehicle Inventory
A form used when transporting an automobile, motorcycle or boat that lists the vehicle’s miles and condition at both origin and destination. Also referred to as an auto inventory.
N
N/A or N/C
N/A means not applicable; N/C means no charge
Net Weight
The actual weight of a shipment obtained by subtracting the tare (light) weight from the gross (heavy) weight.
O
Operating Authority
The government permit that defines the scope of a carrier’s operation by area and commodity.
Sea Cure Moving is an agent for Bekins Van Lines, which allows us to operate in an interstate capacity under the Van Lines authority and compliance.
Order for Service
The contract document authorizing the mover to transport your household goods, received at least 24 hours prior to the move.
As of December 2023, the FMCSA updated regulations that allow the signed estimate to serve as the Order for Service, essentially eliminating the OFS. The Bill of Lading is the legal and final binding document reflecting services performed during the move.
The documentation for intrastate moving can vary state to state. In New Jersey, the Order for Service at the time of posting is still a required document advising of terms and conditions and asking the shipper to make a final Valuation selection for their shipment prior to travel.
Order (Bill of Lading) Number
In interstate moving, it is the number used to identify and track your shipment. The number appears on all documentation and correspondence. Also referred to as the Registration Number.
Origin Agent
In interstate moving, it is the agent responsible for performing packing and providing origin services such as preparing necessary documentation for the move.
Overflow
When articles to be shipped are left behind due to insufficient space on the primary van. An additional van(s) is then utilized for transportation and delivery. Also referred to as a leave over.
Sea Cure Moving reviews your inventory repeatedly prior to your move to ensure proper capacity is planned for your move. Be sure to communicate any major changes to your intended inventory, especially additions, to your move coordinator well in advance to avoid any overflows.
This is another reason to hire professional movers who are experienced at ‘road loading’ for long distance travel.
Overnight Hold
After loading the vehicle at origin, a delayed delivery may be required by circumstances beyond the mover’s control, or by shipper request. Goods will be temporarily held in the moving van until they can be unloaded at your new residence. If this is done at your request, there is an additional charge.
This can be costly if unplanned and requested once the move is already in motion, so be sure to discuss loading and delivery dates with our Planner and get solid assurances on closing and certificate of occupancy timelines and any other factors on your end which may disrupt delivery.
P
Packed by Owner (PBO)
Used on the inventory to identify cartons that have been packed by the customer. Learn more about packing. Sea Cure assumes no liability for damage to contents of cartons, crates, bins or other items that are packed by you or your third party.
Packing
Services required for proper packing of goods to be transported.
When your Sea Cure Moving Consultant performs your visual survey, we will inquire as to what may be Packed by Owner (PBO), and what may need professional Carrier Packing (CP).
Packing Date
A date or dates set aside for the carrier packing of loose articles. It is usually the day or days prior to loading of the goods unless our Planner has approved same day packing for same day use items (such as bedding, TV’s, mirrors) or the move is small enough to pack and move the same day.
Once your Sea Cure Moving Consultant has performed your visual survey, you will be advised the most efficient move plan based on your needs and timeline factors.
Permanent Storage
The warehousing of a shipment for an unspecified duration. Goods kept in permanent storage with Sea Cure Moving are kept in climate and temperature-controlled warehouses exclusively owned or occupied by Sea Cure Moving.
Pick Up and Delivery Charges
In a scenario where storage is part of the move, it is the separate transportation charges applicable for transporting your shipment between the origin and warehouse and then the warehouse and destination.
Planner
At Sea Cure Moving, our Planner assumes the tasks of approving the scheduling of loading and delivery dates for a customer, assigns a qualified driver and crew to load, transport and unload shipments, plans driver routes, and ensures interstate moves are registered with Bekins Traffic Department.
ProMover Program
A certification program created by the American Trucking Association (ATA), the program gives consumers an easy way to separate reputable, professional movers from rogue movers. A certified ProMover must meet stringent requirements and agree to comply with the regulations set forth by ATA as well as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Surface Transportation Board (STB).
Sea Cure Moving is a Certified ProMover.
Purchase Order
A written authorization for billing a relocation to a company. This must be approved in advance of the move. Please inquire with your Moving Consultant.
R
Registration Number
During an interstate move, the number used to identify and track your shipment. The number appears on all documentation and correspondence usually in the upper right-hand corner. Also referred to as the Order (Bill of Lading) Number.
Reweigh
When there is doubt about the origin weight of a shipment, a reweigh may be requested by the customer at destination. There is no charge for the reweigh; however, charges are calculated on the new weight whether the new weight is higher or lower.
S
Scale Ticket
A voucher providing the weigh scale reading for tare weight and/or gross weight of a van.
Shipment
The term “shipment” means property tendered by one shipper, and accepted by the carrier, at one place of origin and at one time, for one consignee, at one destination and covered by one Bill of Lading. The name of only one shipper and one consignee shall appear on the Bill of Lading, but the Bill of Lading may include multiple extra pick up or delivery locations, and may also specify the name of a party to notify of the arrival of the shipment at destination.
Shipment Protection
The customer is given the opportunity to declare the total value or valuation of all goods before beginning the move. This Valuation is used as a factor in settling claims for loss or damage should the need arise. You must choose the type of protection in writing prior to loading.
Valuation requirements and options vary from state to state when moving within state, and interstate.
If high value is declared on a Shipment, a Full Replacement option must be selected.
Sea Cure Moving’s Professional Moving Consultants and Coordinators can help guide you through the Valuation Declaration of your goods and protection options.
Shipper
The person or entity named on the order for service and bill of lading, authorizing the goods to be moved.
Shuttle Service
Use of a smaller vehicle to provide service when the residence is not accessible to the mover’s normal equipment. Shuttle service involves offloading the goods from the original equipment and reloading them to a smaller vehicle.
Depending on the weight of the shipment, this could involve several trips with the smaller vehicle. The shuttle charge is based on a rate-per-hundred weight. Also referred to as auxiliary service.
Spread Dates
The combined dates for the agreed pick up and the agreed delivery.
Storage-in-Transit
Storage: With an interstate move, a temporary warehouse storage of your shipment pending further transportation. For example, if your new home isn’t quite ready to occupy, you must specifically request SIT service, which allows for billing storage by the day up to a total of 180 days. You will be responsible for the added charges for SIT service as well as the warehouse handling and final delivery charges.
Stretch Wrap
The material and process used to protect overstuffed furniture (except leather and suede) from damage. Also referred to as shrink wrap.
Surface Transportation Board
The agency within the Department of Transportation responsible for the regulation and monitoring of railroads and rates for the household goods industry.
Survey (Physical or Virtual)
The process where, prior to moving, the mover inspects the shipper's designated items to be moved, by performing either a physical onsite survey or a virtual survey which includes a video component listing items to be moved, for the purpose of developing a cost or an estimate. The FMCSA and the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, legally require public movers to perform a physical survey whenever the goods are accessible for interstate and intrastate moves respectively.
T
Table of Measurements
A document used to determine the cubic feet that furniture, appliances, cartons and miscellaneous articles occupy in the van. By converting the cubic feet into pounds, an estimated weight is acquired that is used in calculating the estimated cost for a move. Also referred to as a Cube Sheet.
Tare Weight
The weight of a truck before a shipment is loaded, including fuel, all essential loading equipment and packing materials. Also referred to as the light weight.
Tariff
The mover’s required, published price, list of rules, regulations, rates and charges for the performance of interstate and intrastate moving services.
Third Party Services (3PS)
Services performed by someone other than the mover at the shipper’s request.
Transit Time
The time frame when your belongings are picked up to when they are delivered to the designated destination.
Transportation Charge
The cost of a single loading, transporting, and unloading of goods comprise the charge.
U
Uncrating
Refers to the process of removing the wooden crating material from items that had been crated.
Unpacking
Services required to remove or undo packing of goods at the end of a shipment’s transportation.
V
Valuation
The degree of “worth” of the shipment. The valuation charge compensates the mover for assuming a greater degree of liability than that provided for in the base transportation charges.
The customer is given the opportunity to declare the total value or valuation of all goods before beginning the move. This Valuation is used as a factor in settling claims for loss or damage should the need arise. You must choose the type of protection in writing prior to loading.
Valuation requirements and options vary from state to state when moving within state, and interstate.
If high value is declared on a Shipment, a Full Replacement option must be selected.
Sea Cure Moving’s Professional Moving Consultants and Coordinators can help guide you through the Valuation Declaration of your goods and protection options.
Learn about our valuation options.
Van
Most types and kinds of fully enclosed trucks used for moving are called "vans". A van can be as small as a pack van or as large as an 80-foot-long tractor-trailer.
Van Line
A motor carrier with local agents that coordinates the movement of household goods and special products.
Van Operator
The individual who oversees the loading, hauling and unloading of your household goods.
Visual Survey
A visual survey is performed by the mover or origin agent to determine which items are to be moved. The amount of packing required and any special services necessary to properly service your shipment are determined during the survey. This may be performed on site or virtually through video chat.
A cube sheet is prepared and used to determine the weight. The weight is the basis for the moving cost. All elements of the survey come together to determine an estimated cost for moving your goods.
W
Warehouse Receipt
A required legal document noting the quantity and condition of all goods passing into the carrier’s care and custody for storage via an itemized inventory. It must note the exact physical location of the storage facility.
Weight & Mileage
An alternate method of cost computation usually reserved for longer distance moves. Determination is by mileage between origin and destination, times the weight of the goods, as verified by weigh tickets, and measured by a table of rates and break points.
Weight Ticket
A machine printed ticket produced by a State certified scale, and signed by a duly authorized
Weigh
Master as verification. Such a ticket denotes the tare weight and the gross weight of a given vehicle.
Y
Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move
A government-required publication given to all COD customers. Learn more about Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.
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