Handling relocation paperwork – tips and tricks

Even for someone who is moving regularly, handling relocation paperwork can seem very confusing and impossible to understand.  There are many different documents. And they all have different legal meaning and form. Of course, you do not have to be a legal expert to handle moving paperwork properly. However, some general knowledge can be very useful. Therefore, before hiring state to state movers for your important move, learn about the paperwork that is involved in the moving process. So you can understand how to handle it properly when the time comes.

Learn about relocation paperwork

During the moving process, you will encounter many different papers. And if you are not aware of their meaning you are in danger of losing control over your relocation. This can result in many different ways. However, it usually means your wallet will be thinner than you previously expected.

The list of paperwork involved in the relocation process

• Moving quotes or estimates. Handling relocation paperwork starts with moving estimates
• Bill of lading
• Order of service
• Copies of “Your rights and responsibilities when you move” and “Ready to move” brochures
• Insurance
• Statement of services
• IRS tax deduction document

Don’t accept the first estimate you receive

The first paper you will encounter when you are starting your moving process are moving estimates. When you are planning to move you will call and ask moving companies NH to give you their estimates. The trick here is to ask for estimates from several moving companies. And then do the comparison. That is the best way of finding reliable and affordable options at the same time. Also, pay attention to services that are included in the estimates you receive. Not every moving company offers the same services. So that might be the reason for, at first glance, unreasonable price differences. There are also different types of moving estimates. And you need to know which one is the most favorable for you as a customer.

Shortlist of moving estimates

• A non-binding moving estimate is usually not too good for the customer. Even though it might look that way, at first glance. If you receive a very affordable non-binding moving estimate it usually means it is a scam. And, that you will pay much more than you have previously hoped.
• A binding estimate is an estimate that is set in stone. You will pay the amount from your estimate. No matter how much was the real cost. This can be good or bad. But this estimate is usually the only type that moving companies will offer you.
• A binding-not-to-exceed estimate is the most customer-friendly type of moving estimates. And if you manage to find a moving company that offers this type of estimate, consider hiring them. It means that customers are important to them. And it means that the final price of your moving can be like from the estimate or lower. If the final expenses of your move appear to be lower at the end.

Bill of lading is the most important document when you are handling relocation paperwork

Bill of lading is the most important document you will encounter during your move. It is essentially a contract between you and your moving company. It needs to hold all the important data about your relocation. The most important part when handling BL is to check all information immediately as you receive it. Read the document top to bottom and check at least all crucial information. That is the price, weight of your inventory, and personal information.

Order of service

Order of service if a paper that you will receive along with your bill of lading papers. When you decide to hire moving services NH they will provide you with a copy of the order of service for your relocation. The document needs to include details from your moving estimate, scheduled dates. And information about all the additional services you requested. Remember that both parties should sign this document.

Handling your inventory relocation paperwork

Before the moving crew starts with loading your items into a moving truck, the driver should check your inventory. And make a list of important information about your belongings. The moving inventory list that he creates should name every item that you’ve prepared for moving. And their condition before the move. If you deiced not to use packing services NH and to pack alone, the driver will add a PBO or “packed by owner” note. The important part here is to check the information from the list. And to make sure that every item is on that list. Also, make sure that their condition is truthfully stated.

Handling relocation paperwork requires you to read moving brochures that you receive from your movers

According to the FMCSA rules, your movers should provide you with copies of “Your rights and responsibilities when you move” and “Ready to move” brochures. Read them carefully. And you will find many answers and explanations about the moving process. If your moving company doesn’t provide you with your copies, be careful when doing business with them.

Handling moving insurance papers

Insurance is a very important part of your moving. You want your items to be protected from any possible damage or loss. So learn about liability options that moving companies offer to their clients. There are two types of moving insurances: full value protection and released value protection. Think well and decide what is the best option for you.

Statement of service is another piece of moving paperwork to handle

After your mover delivers your belongings and their job is finished they should give you the final receipt. The statement of service should include all services provided by your movers. And the final price. Check to make sure that everything stated is correct.

Handling tax deductions paperwork

If you are moving for work maybe you are eligible for certain tax deductions. Get an IRS form 3903. And check if you can claim your moving-for-work expenses deduction. If you have donated some items during your move that counts for some moving expenses deduction, too.  Handling relocation paperwork can finally pay off if you manage to get some tax deductions.