If you are moving household goods from your home to another location within Massachusetts, your
mover must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications & Energy. The DTE helps you by setting certain standards which movers must meet and by investigating complaints when problems arise. If
you move household goods from one state to another, the Federal Highway Administration has jurisdiction over the mover, and you should direct any questions to that agency. You may contact the FHA at (202) 927-5528.
No matter where you are moving or whether the move is large or small, you must take time to plan carefully. This pamphlet may help you begin the process of moving within Massachusetts.
How Can I Select A Reputable Mover?
A personal recommendation is the best way to start. But whether you go to a company recommended by friends or choose a company through its advertising, be sure that any company
you contact has an up-to-date Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications & Energy license number.
This is important because, in order to obtain authority to operate in Massachusetts, moving companies must be
licensed by the DTE and are subject to the law and the Department's rules and regulations, designed to protect the consumer. For example, movers licensed by the DTE are required to carry a minimum amount of cargo
insurance as prescribed by law. However, your ability to recover for loss or damage is dependent upon your agreement with the mover.
Movers Responsibility For Loss And Damage
Many public movers offer to
you, as the shipper, a base rate called a declared rate, which is on file with the DTE. The base rate limits the mover's responsibility for your goods to $.60 per pound per article and is not to be construed as
insurance. This means that if any article is damaged or destroyed beyond repair, you are entitled to be reimbursed at $.60 times the actual weight of the item.
Many movers offer you the option of increasing your
declared value above $.60 per pound per article. Check with your mover to see if this option is available. Ask the mover for a list of articles not covered by declared valuation.
Rates
Moving companies must
file their rates with the DTE and may not charge more or less than the rates on file.
You may request a copy of the mover's rates. Also inquire as to how the rates will be applied to the specific circumstances of
your move. Ask if there are any other charges and how or why the final cost might differ from the estimate.
Should I Schedule A Backup Day?
Actually, rather than schedule a backup day, it is best to
reconfirm with the scheduled mover 48 hours in advance of moving day.
How Important Is Obtaining An Estimate?
A written estimate is one of your best safeguards against overcharges and other unpleasant
surprises.
To get a reasonably accurate estimate, you must show the estimator everything you intend to ship. An estimate is not a bid nor a contract, and choosing the mover submitting the lowest estimate will not
assure you the lowest cost move. Regardless of any estimate, the hourly rate or actual weight of your goods and the amount of packing or other additional services performed by the mover will determine the final amount
you must pay for your move. Also keep in mind that some movers charge additional fees. For example, travel time which is defined as the distance between the original point of loading and final point of unloading, in
accordance with odometer readings or DTE approved mileage guides.
Be sure to ask for all additional costs when you are given an estimate for your move. For example, moves based on hourly rates will entitle the mover
to charge a travel time fee in addition to the actual time it takes to complete the job. For moves based on the weight of the shipment, the mover will not charge a travel time fee.
How Will I Be Expected To Pay?
Discuss the method of payment up front. Some companies want cash; some will take a personal check; while others will only take a certified check. It depends on the terms of the written contract or your oral
agreement. Be sure to read the bill of lading/contract carefully.
Who Packs For The Move?
That depends. Frequently you pack all loose items in cartons and the mover takes care of protecting the furniture.
Use enough filler to reduce the chance of breakage. If you pack the cartons carefully and there is damage, the adjustor will consider the packing method as a determining factor in liability.
If you wish to have the
mover pack all your goods, the move will be more expensive. However, the mover may bear additional liability.
Must I Sign The Bill Of Lading/Contract? Yes
The bill of lading is the contract between you and
the mover. The mover is required by law to prepare a bill of lading for every shipment it transports. The information on a bill of lading/contract is required to be the same information shown on the order for service.
The driver who loads your shipment must give you a copy of the bill of lading/contract before loading your furniture.
Be sure the bill of lading/contract includes the mover's name, address, license number
and telephone number at which you can reach them, and an address and telephone number furnished by you to which the mover can communicate information regarding your shipment. The bill of lading should also include the
date of loading, date of delivery, storage instructions, if any, and the declared or released valuation of the goods (refer to
). You must also sign the bill of lading/contract. It is your responsibility to read the bill of
lading/contract (front & back) before you sign it. If you do not agree with something on the bill of lading/contract, do not sign it until you are satisfied that the bill of lading/contract shows what service you
have ordered.
The bill of lading/contract requires the mover to provide the service you have requested, and you must pay the mover the charges for the service.
The bill of lading/contract is an important document.
Do not lose or misplace your copy. Have it available until your shipment is delivered, all charges are paid, and all claims, if any, are settled. Do not underestimate the importance of the bill of lading.
How Long Do I Have To Report Damage?
The terms of the bill of lading/contract may set time limits. Read the bill of lading/contract carefully before you sign it. If you have a claim of damages, save the damaged
items so the mover or adjuster will be able to make a proper judgment. It is in your best interest to report a claim promptly to the mover or adjuster and confirm it in writing.
What Should I Do If I Am
Dissatisfied With Any Aspect Of The Move?
Your first step should be to contact the mover and explain the problem. Often you will be able to resolve matters at this level with little difficulty. If you cannot
resolve your issue with the mover, you should contact the DTE. The Department's Transportation Division is obligated to investigate written complaints.
Checklist For Easier Moving
- Be sure the mover has a Massachusetts DTE license.
- Get a written estimate.
- Check with the DTE for additional information concerning liability coverage, rates and complaint history of the mover.
- Review the written bill of lading/contract (front & back) carefully before signing.
- Make sure to be present during your move.
- Agree to the method and terms of payment before moving day.
- During unloading, check the goods carefully before signing off on their condition. Be sure the bill of lading/contract gives you the right to take a reasonable amount of time to check items for damages.
- Ask the mover to check the van to ensure that all your goods have been delivered.
If an issue should arise regarding the storage of your shipment contact the Department of Public Safety at (617) 727-3200. The Department of Telecommunications & Energy does not regulate the storage of household
goods.
We're Here To Help:
Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications & Energy
Transportation Division
100 Cambridge Street
Boston, MA 02202
Tel: (617) 305-3559
