USDOT 2792009 MC 86750 Georgia State License HHG8757 Licensed & Insured No Broker
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Before the move

Only use a licensed mover

Household goods carriers under Georgia DPS jurisdiction must hold a DPS certificate. Licensed movers must follow DPS rules and the published Maximum Rate Tariff. Unlicensed movers operate outside the law and may give little or no protection for loss or damage.

Check the licensed list at www.gamccd.net. DPS recommends against using a mover that does not appear in that database. Ask for the certificate number. It should be on paperwork and advertising.

How cost is calculated

  • Under 50 miles: charges are based on workers and hours for loading, moving, and unloading (Maximum Rate Tariff, Section III).
  • Over 50 miles: charges are based on shipment weight and distance (Section IV).

Rates are published in the Maximum Rate Tariff on the DPS site and at the mover’s office. Rates are negotiable. You are not liable for charges that are not in the tariff.

Estimates must be in writing

A licensed mover must give you a free written estimate. Get more than one. The estimator should see everything you want moved (basement, attic, garage) and any special conditions (stairs, elevators). Leave out items you will move yourself.

Get the written estimate before the crew arrives. It should list what is moving, services, third-party work, crew and truck size, and liability. Have the carrier sign your copy. Keep it. It is the first document asked for in an overcharge dispute.

Two types of estimates in Georgia:

  • Non-binding: the carrier may not charge more than 110% of the quote as a condition of releasing the load at destination, and must wait 30 days before demanding any balance.
  • Binding: the agreed amount binds both shipper and carrier before the move.

If you pack yourself

Movers generally do not accept liability for items you pack, unless the mover is negligent in handling them. Cartons must withstand the ride. Ask the mover to pack fragile items. Never pack matches, flammables, or other dangerous articles.

Do not put jewelry, money, important papers, medicines, or other valuables on the truck. Carry them with you. The mover is not responsible for those items.

During the move

Inventory

An inventoried bill of lading and the addendum matter if you file a claim. After the truck arrives and before loading, you may ask for an inventory and walk it with the mover. If you disagree with a line, note it on the form before you sign. Make sure notes are on both copies and are readable.

On hourly jobs you may pay for inventory time. Without an inventory, a claim is harder to prove.

Bill of lading

This is the contract. It states services, how you are charged, and liability. Read the liability section. Get a copy. Do not sign until you understand and agree. Licensed movers must issue a bill of lading. Do not hire a mover who will not.

Addendum — carrier liability

Liability may be less than the value of your goods unless you declare a value and pay for that protection. Licensed movers must give you a liability addendum. Carrier liability is not the same as insurance. Ask your own agent if you need more coverage.

Three options:

  • Option 1 — Released value: $0.60 per pound per article, based only on the weight of the lost or damaged item. No extra charge.
  • Option 2a — Full value: current replacement value. Carrier may repair or restore. Extra charge based on declared value.
  • Option 2b — Full value with deductible: current replacement value with a $300 deductible you pay.

Packing containers and packing labor

Fees for cartons, crates, and packing/unpacking are in the Maximum Rate Tariff (Section IV, Item 5). The fee is all-inclusive. Tape and paper cannot be billed on top.

Weight (moves over 50 miles)

You may verify tare weight (empty truck, full fuel, supplies, no crew) before loading. You may watch the official loaded weighing. Shipment weight is gross minus tare. If you miss the scale and later dispute it, you may demand a reweigh; you may have to pay that cost depending on how close the first weight was.

Delivery

Be at the destination at the agreed time. If you are not there, goods may go to short-term storage, often with extra fees.

Check condition before you sign a delivery receipt. Note loss or damage on the inventory or bill of lading — specific, readable, on both copies. Inspect cartons you do not want opened yet. If you packed the carton, the mover may not be liable for contents unless the carton shows visible damage. Check while the crew is still there.

Pay at delivery

Unless you have credit terms, pay before unload. Expect cash, money order, or cashier’s check based on the written estimate.

After the move

Claims

File in writing within 90 days of delivery. Describe the loss or damage. Attach the inventory and/or bill of lading. Send it to the mover’s local office. Keep damaged items; the mover may inspect them. Do not repair or replace before talking to the mover.

The mover must acknowledge and pay, settle, or deny a written claim within 90 days.

If the carrier will not address the claim, file a DPS complaint at www.gamccd.net (household goods page). Include the estimate, bill of lading, addendum, correspondence, and photos. State origin, destination, the problem, and the paper trail with the carrier.

DPS does not handle interstate moves.

Things to remember

  • Use a DPS-certified carrier. Get the certificate number. Check gamccd.net for the carrier and complaints.
  • Get a signed written estimate and keep it.
  • Be ready when the crew arrives.
  • Walk the inventory before loading.
  • Understand the bill of lading before you sign.
  • Have the mover explain liability options before the move.
  • Be at destination on time.
  • Check the load before you sign the delivery receipt.
  • Stay flexible.

Georgia Department of Public Safety

CVE Regulatory Compliance
959 United Avenue SE
Atlanta, GA 30316
www.gamccd.net
404-624-7241
householdgoods@gsp.net

Receipt of this guide

Georgia rules require the shipper to acknowledge this pamphlet in writing. Use this on the job with the bill of lading — do not treat a website click as a substitute unless your attorney says otherwise.

I ______________________________ acknowledge that I received the Moving Guide for Household Goods Moves in Georgia.

Date: ______________    Bill of lading #: ______________

Shipper printed name: ______________

Shipper signature: ______________