Moving can feel like drowning in to-do lists and a pile of paperwork, but there is one document you need to pay close attention to: your bill of lading. This piece of paper is the most important part of your move. Here is a breakdown of what it is and exactly what you need to check before signing.
What Is a Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading is the main contract for your move. It confirms everything you and the movers agreed on, like the total price and the complete list of items they are putting on the truck.
This document should have:
- The full contact details for the moving company
- Identification numbers for the trucks carrying your items.
- Time and date for both pickup and delivery.
- Total cost (including any extra services you agreed to)
- Your destination address
- An inventory of the items being moved
- Your payment method
Checking Your Bill of Lading Before Signing
It’s very important that you look over everything to make sure it’s right. Start with the dates and price. Make sure the pickup and delivery times are what you agreed to and that the total price is correct and covers any extra services. Also just make sure the payment method is what you were expecting.
Check that the address for your new home is 100% correct and that the truck ID numbers are listed.
Finally, go through the inventory list with the crew. This is the best way to make sure every box and piece of furniture is actually written down. Once everything matches, you’re good to sign.
What If You Catch a Mistake?
If you find a mistake on the day of the move, just ask the moving team to correct it before you sign. If they tell you they will “fix it later,” kindly insist that it be updated right then and there. Your signature acts as a final agreement, so it is much easier to fix errors before you sign rather than after.
Need Help With Your Move?
Your Bill of Lading is a big part of your move, and we know you’ll have a thousand things on your plate while moving. Still, please take a moment to look over your paperwork and make sure everything looks good.
If you are moving or just starting to plan, and you have any questions (about this or anything else) please ask us. We’re happy to help. And if you’re looking for a quote, just fill out our form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
