Oklahoma moving company rules

Estimates

Movers must give a written binding or non-binding estimate that states which type it is, the forms of payment accepted at delivery, the date, and both signatures. Non-binding estimates must be reasonably accurate. Under the 110% rule, the mover must deliver your goods once you pay 110% of the estimated charges. Extra charges need a written agreement signed by both sides and generally cannot be added after loading.

Liability for loss or damage

Before the move you must choose in writing between released value, which costs nothing extra and pays 60 cents per pound per article, and full value, under which the mover repairs, replaces or pays for lost or damaged items up to the declared value of the shipment. With full value you must list in writing any item worth more than $100 per pound. Claims must be filed in writing within nine months of delivery; the mover must acknowledge within 30 days and pay or deny within 90 days.

Insurance or bond

Household goods carriers must file proof of at least $750,000 of liability insurance and separate cargo insurance or bond of at least $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence, on forms approved by OCC.

Where to complain

• OCC Household Goods Carrier Complaint Form
• OCC Transportation Division household goods complaints and questions
• Oklahoma Attorney General, Consumer Protection Unit

Other Oklahoma rules to know

• Moves entirely inside one city still require an OCC household goods certificate.
• OCC rules warn that a USDOT number on a truck does not show the mover holds an active state household goods certificate.
• Movers must give you OCC's consumer information, titled "Moving in Oklahoma," with the written estimate, and you sign the bill of lading to confirm you received it.
• Each truck must display an OCC identification stamp and carry a copy of the current certificate.
• If charges are based on weight, the mover must weigh the truck before and after loading, and you may watch the weighing.