Washington moving company rules

Estimates

Movers must give a free written estimate before the move. A binding estimate guarantees the price for the listed items and services. With a non-binding estimate the final cost can be higher, but no more than 25 percent above the estimate or any supplemental estimate. If services change, the mover must give you a supplemental estimate to sign before doing the extra work. If charges exceed the non-binding estimate, the mover must release your goods when you pay 110 percent of the final estimate and give you 30 days to pay the rest.

Liability for loss or damage

Tariff 15-C offers three levels of mover liability: basic per-pound protection at no cost, replacement cost with a deductible, and replacement cost with no deductible. If you do not choose one on the bill of lading, the replacement-cost option with a deductible applies. File a written loss or damage claim within nine months of delivery; the mover must acknowledge it within 10 days.

Insurance or bond

Permitted movers must keep public liability and property damage insurance of at least $300,000 for vehicles under 10,000 pounds and $750,000 for heavier vehicles, plus cargo insurance of at least $10,000 for vehicles under 10,000 pounds and $20,000 for heavier vehicles.

Where to complain

• UTC consumer complaint
• Washington Attorney General complaint

Other Washington rules to know

• Moves of 55 miles or less are priced by crew size, time and hourly rate; moves of 56 miles or more are priced by weight and distance.
• Movers must give you the UTC's Consumer Guide to Moving in Washington State, available in several languages.
• Everyone named on a household goods permit application must complete UTC training before the permit is issued.
• Goods kept in storage-in-vehicle may stay there no more than 15 days unless you agree to an extension.
• You can report a company you suspect is moving without a permit to the UTC.