Moving Terms & Definitions
Understanding moving terminology helps you communicate better with your movers and make informed decisions. Here are common terms used in the moving and relocation industry.
A
- Accessorial Services
- Additional services beyond basic moving, such as packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly, or storage.
- Appliance Service
- Professional disconnection, preparation, and reconnection of large appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers.
B
- Bill of Lading
- A legal document that serves as a receipt for your belongings and a contract between you and the moving company.
- Binding Estimate
- A guaranteed price for your move that cannot be changed unless you add services or items not included in the original estimate.
C
- Crating
- The process of building a custom wooden box to protect fragile, valuable, or oddly-shaped items during transport.
- Cubic Feet
- A measurement used to determine the volume of space your belongings will occupy in the moving truck.
D
- Delivery Window
- The time frame during which your belongings will be delivered to your new location.
- Disassembly
- Taking apart furniture or equipment to make it easier and safer to move.
F
- Full-Service Move
- A comprehensive moving service where the movers handle packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking.
I
- Inventory
- A detailed list of all items being moved, often used to track and verify belongings during the move.
L
- Loading
- The process of placing your belongings into the moving truck at your current location.
- Long-Distance Move
- A move that crosses city or regional boundaries, typically requiring more planning and time.
M
- Moving Estimate
- An approximate cost calculation for your move, which can be binding or non-binding.
- Moving Helper
- A professional laborer who assists with loading, unloading, and moving heavy items.
N
- Non-Binding Estimate
- An approximate cost that may change based on the actual weight or volume of items moved.
P
- Packing
- Wrapping and boxing items to protect them during transportation.
- Packing Materials
- Supplies used to protect items, including boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, and padding.
- Piano Move
- Specialized moving service for pianos, requiring expert handling and specialized equipment.
R
- Relocation
- The process of moving from one location to another, often involving a change of residence or business location.
S
- Storage
- Temporary holding of belongings in a secure facility, either short-term or long-term.
- Self-Service Move
- A move where you handle packing and the moving company provides transportation only.
U
- Unloading
- The process of removing your belongings from the moving truck at your destination.
- Unpacking
- Removing items from boxes and placing them in their designated locations in your new home.
V
- Valuation
- Protection or insurance coverage for your belongings during the move, determining the mover's liability for damaged or lost items.
Note: This glossary covers common moving terms. For specific questions about your move, please contact our team.