Whether you are moving into a nearby neighborhood or a completely new city, the whole process is chaotic. But there's help available to make things easier for you. Yes, by hiring the best packers and movers for the job, you can unload the bigger burdens on your shoulders.
In the process of hiring IBA-approved packers and movers, you will come across many documentation procedures. While it may seem like too much, there is a reason for it. This article will help you understand why it is necessary and what types of paperwork you will have to see. Keep reading to know more!
Role of paperwork in the moving process
Reading the fine print during paperwork is never an enjoyable process. But paying attention to it can save you from unpleasant surprises of hidden costs by unprofessional companies. Best of all, you can even avoid fake companies by paying attention to the paperwork.
When hiring a company, you need to read and understand the contracts before signing them. If you have doubts regarding certain conditions or clauses, you need to clarify them before signing the documents. This will serve as proof of their services to your move. Make sure to keep copies of these important documents with you throughout the whole moving process.
Different types of paperwork that you will sign
Moving estimate
When you search the internet for the best packers and movers, you would have seen something about the pre-move survey. Before a company can give you either a binding or non-binding estimate, they need to do a pre-move survey to give an accurate moving estimate in writing. If the company offers to give this estimate through phone or email, don’t accept it because it is too risky.
Details like estimate type, calculated final amount, additional services you opted for, and their charges will be present in the moving estimate. If you don’t understand why the company charges a specific amount, ask them. Depending on how they answer, you can say whether they are dependable or not.
Order of Service
If you like the quoted charges and the condition the company states, you need to contact the company to hire their services. Once you inform them, you will get an order of service from the company side. This is an official contract stating the terms and conditions of the transaction.
Details like pick-up date, estimated delivery date, cost (should be the same amount as in moving estimate), insurance, moving vehicle type, cancellation policy terms, extra services, and other terms were explained during the pre-move survey. Sign this document only after you have a complete understanding of the terms and conditions.
Bill of Lading
The company will give the bill of lading on moving day. Only after you sign, this document will the workers start to load your luggage. This is a confirmatory document that says things are going according to plan. Before you sign this, make sure to compare this document with the order of service document to check for any changes. If you do notice anything, ask the company for the reason.
The mover will sign this document after you signed. Then, you will get a copy of it. Make sure to keep it safe throughout the whole move.
Home Inventory Sheet
This is a form that makes sure that no item gets left out. As each item is brought out of your old home, it will get marked here. All the things that the packers and movers will move will get a mention here.
Once you reach your new place and all your stuff gets unloaded, you need to sign this document. Sign after you check the luggage.
High-Value Inventory Sheet
If you have delicate or costly items that require special attention, they get included under here. For their safety during transit, the company will plan and pack it accordingly. After delivery, you need to sign this.
