How to Read a Moving Contract Before You Sign

A moving contract is called a Bill of Lading. It's the single most important document in your move. Everything the mover promises verbally means nothing unless it's on this document. Here's what to look for and what to watch out for.

The estimate is what the mover quotes you. The Bill of Lading is what you actually agree to at pickup. These can be different numbers. Always compare them. If the Bill of Lading is higher than the estimate, ask why before signing.

Binding estimate (locked price, you pay exactly this), Non-binding estimate (approximation, final cost can be up to 110% of estimate at delivery under FMCSA rules), Binding not-to-exceed (you pay the estimate OR actual cost, whichever is lower, best option for consumers).

This is your insurance. Released Value ($0.60/lb, free) or Full Value Protection (replacement cost, costs extra). The mover is required to explain both options. If they didn't, that's a violation. Circle and initial your choice.

The contract should specify a pickup date and a delivery window. "As soon as possible" is not a delivery date. Get specific dates in writing. Ask about per-day penalties if delivery is late.

These are add-on fees: stairs ($50-150/flight), long carry ($50-100 for 75+ feet from truck to door), shuttle service ($300-500 if a full-size truck can't access your street), elevator fees, storage-in-transit. These should be listed on the estimate. If they appear on the Bill of Lading but not the estimate, challenge them.

Read every line. Cross out anything you didn't agree to. Write "subject to final inspection" above your signature if the mover is rushing you. Take a photo of every page. Never sign a blank or partially filled form.

No USDOT number printed on the document, company name on the contract doesn't match who showed up, estimate and Bill of Lading have different company names (broker handoff), required to pay in cash or money order only, no valuation coverage section.