Know Your Rights as a Mover

Moving from one state to another? You have specific rights designed to protect you during your move — and it’s important to understand them before signing anything. Every interstate moving company is required to provide you with certain documents and explain your legal rights as a shipper. These rights cover everything from how your estimate is calculated to how lost or damaged goods are handled. Being aware of these protections can help you avoid misunderstandings, overcharges, or unreliable service. Here are two key resources every mover should read:

1. Ready to Move – Tips for a Successful Interstate Move
2. Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Both publications come from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the government agency that regulates interstate moving. These resources are not just formalities—they are tools to empower you, help you understand red flags, and ensure your move goes smoothly.

Additional Rights You Should Know

• You have the right to receive written estimates. Verbal estimates are not considered binding or enforceable.
• You must be provided with a written inventory of the items being shipped, especially if you’re charged by weight or volume.
• You are entitled to a clear Bill of Lading, which serves as your official contract with the carrier. Always read this carefully before signing.
• You have the right to file a claim for lost or damaged items. Carriers are required to acknowledge claims and respond within a specified time frame.
• You can request a copy of the carrier’s tariff, which is the full list of rates, fees, and rules used to calculate your charges.

How Moving Estimates Work — What You Should Know When Booking Through a Broker

What Is a Moving Broker?

A moving broker is a company that helps you arrange your move by acting as a middleman between you and licensed moving carriers. We don’t own the trucks or employ the movers who show up on moving day — instead, we partner with a network of licensed and insured motor carriers who handle the physical transport of your belongings. As brokers, we provide:

• Personalized support during the booking process
• Access to multiple carriers to find you the best fit and schedule
• Transparent communication between you and the selected carrier
• Help with paperwork, timelines, and updates

What Goes Into an Estimate?

We’ll ask you for details like move date, origin and destination, home size, and access conditions. Your estimate is calculated using the carrier’s tariff — a standardized rate list that reflects your move’s specifications.

The Types of Estimates You Might Receive

• Non-Binding Estimate: Final cost may change based on actual weight or volume.
• Binding Estimate: The price is guaranteed unless your move changes.
• Binding Not-To-Exceed: You’ll never pay more than quoted, even if the move is heavier than estimated.

What Can Affect Your Final Cost?

• Additional items not listed during the quote
• Stairs, long carries, or difficult access
• Last-minute service additions or changes in schedule
• Storage requests, packing services, or extra materials

The Tariff: Your Pricing Blueprint

All estimates provided by Hercules Moving Solutions are based on the carrier’s published tariff. Each authorized motor carrier is required by law to maintain a current tariff and make it available for public inspection upon reasonable request.

Who’s Moving You? Meet Our Motor Carriers

We partner only with licensed, insured motor carriers. To verify any carrier’s credentials, visit the FMCSA Company Snapshot Tool. Below are examples of carriers we work with:

Changing Plans? Understanding Deposits, Cancellations, and Refunds

• Deposits are non-refundable unless canceled in writing within 48 hours of booking (minus 5% fee).
• If your pickup date is within 7 days of booking, the deposit is non-refundable.
• Cancellations within 7 days of pickup are not eligible for refund but may receive a 12-month credit.
• Date changes or placing a move on hold is allowed 5 business days in advance. After that, the deposit becomes non-refundable.
• Refusing pickup results in full forfeiture of the deposit.
• Approved refunds may take up to 60 days to appear on your statement.

Email cancellation requests to: cancel@herculesmovingsolutions.com