Some moving companies may have fast talkers trying to confuse you but don’t worry; not all movers are out to get you. There are honest movers, like Bethesda movers who advised us on this post and want you to understand what you’re getting into when you hire office movers.

Though they may use words you are unfamiliar with, an established and reputable moving company will have employees who will gladly walk you through the procedure and explain any jargon you are unsure of.

We want you to be as informed as possible, so we have compiled a list of commonly used terms you may encounter when booking movers in Bethesda. Here are the ten most frequently used moving terms:

Accessorial Charges

This term refers to any fees charged by movers for additional services such as supplying packing boxes, packing booklets, and other high-volume items, unpacking, and additional pick-ups. 

This fee may also include additional charges for long distances. Before signing the bill of lading, you should contact the moving company’s main office if you have any questions or concerns about these charges.

Bill Of Lading

Don’t be alarmed when you hear the “bill of lading!” The bill of lading is an essential component of your move because it is a service agreement that details the terms and conditions of your move and your invoice for your goods. All moving jobs include a bill of lading, making it easier to review the agreed-upon services.

Claim

A claim is a written declaration of damage or loss to goods when they are in the custody, control, or care of the movers or their associated agent.

Delivery Window

A delivery window is the time frame within which movers must deliver a shipment to its intended destination. Depending on different factors, the delivery window can be anywhere from two to four days (consolidation options, actual distance, current climatic conditions, etc.).

Freight Service

A low-cost moving service that only transports household goods from their origin to their destination (packing, reassembling, appliance servicing, and other moving-related procedures are not carried out by the moving company).

Long Carry Fee

An additional fee is charged when the customer’s possessions must be transported a long distance (upwards of 75 feet) from the back of the moving truck to the front door of the house (or from the home to the moving truck).

Non-Allowable

Non-allowable items or products should be excluded from the shipment of household products, such as toxins, corrosive chemicals, and flammables. Perishable items such as temperature-controlled and frozen foods are also not permitted unless special arrangements are made beforehand. It is against the law to move any non-allowable items.

Overflow

Overflow occurs when items to be moved are left behind because of a lack of space in the main van. An additional van is then used to transport and deliver them.

Survey

A survey is carried out by the movers or an agent and consists of an inspection of the client’s goods to be moved. The survey’s goal is to create an estimate of moving costs.

Transit time

This is the estimated time it will take for your shipment to reach its destination. Make sure to plan your move accordingly, so you don’t have to wait too long for your belongings.

Conclusion

Moving can be a stressful time for both employees and clients. Knowing the correct moving jargon can make the moving process less tricky and the moving industry more transparent. 

However, you will probably get to hear these terms while moving. Refer to these moving terms and share them with residents and clients to help them feel more at ease when working with their moving company.

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