What is the Bill of Lading
A bill of lading is a legally binding contract between yourself and your moving company. A moving company issues this document to a moving consumer. In addition to acknowledging the receipt of goods, a bill of lading indicates the particular vessel on which the goods have been placed, their intended destination, as well as the terms and conditions of the move.
The bill ensures that your goods are being carried legally and according to a binding contract. Additionally, the bill of lading serves as the receipt indicating that your shipment has been delivered to your home in good condition. Your moving company should give you a copy of one during your move.
The bill is an important document, so make sure to hold onto it until your move is complete, all your goods are secured, your services have been paid for, and any claims have been settled.
At the time the mover’s driver loads your shipment, he or she, although not required by law to do so, will generally inventory your shipment, listing any damages or unusual wear. The purpose is to have a record of the condition of each item. You should already be prepared with your own inventory list, as such a list makes packing and directing your move a much simpler process. It’s also ideal to be able to compare your list with the list of your mover to verify its accuracy. After completing the inventory, the driver will usually sign each page, asking you to sign as well. Make sure that every item entry on your list matches every item entry on his list—including any pertinent details about the condition of any items that are worn or damaged.
The driver will give you a copy of each page of the inventory. Attach the complete inventory to your copy of the Bill of Lading, as it is a receipt for your delivered goods. At the time your shipment is delivered, it’s up to you make sure that the items listed—as well as the conditions they are in—correspond to the items you have received. If you find that one of your items has been damaged during the move, note it on the inventory form. Bring the damage to the attention of the driver and request that she or he make a record of the damage on her or his copy.
After your goods have been completely moved into your new home, the driver will ask you to sign his or her copy of the inventory. Do not do so until you have made sure that it is accurate and includes all the correct notations about any damages done to your belongings prior to or caused by the move.
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