Public Movers and Warehousemen

Yes. All public movers and warehousemen operating intrastate (within New Jersey) must obtain a license from the Division of Consumer Affairs. Licenses are of three types: PM - which is a license to move only; PW - which is a license for warehousing only; or PC - a combination license which permits both moving and warehousing.

You may call the Division of Consumer Affairs at (973) 504-6442 or 6512 or visit https://newjersey.mylicense.com/verification/ to verify whether they have a license and review their complaint history.

The Division of Consumer Affairs, as a State agency, cannot recommend movers or warehousemen. You should verify whether a business has a license and may review any complaint history. Consider getting written estimates from at least three businesses.

When a consumer requests an estimate from a mover or warehouseman, the mover must then:

1. perform an on-site or virtual survey of the goods you are planning to move;
2. give you a copy of the estimate, filled out completely; and
3. provide you with a printed version or digital link to a copy of a brochure entitled Important Notice to Consumers Using Public Movers and Warehousemen (which is a State-approved brochure).

The calculation of the estimate is based upon the mover's tariff, which is a formal schedule of rates and charges, copies of which are kept on file in the mover's main office and with the Division of Consumer Affairs. To ensure the accuracy of an estimate, you must show the estimator everything you are planning to move and consider the costs of insurance, packing, and other charges (i.e., special services or rigging which might be needed).

A binding estimate stipulates a fixed cost, agreed upon by both the mover and the consumer. A binding estimate may be requested of a mover, but the movers is not required to offer one.

After selecting a mover, they must issue a copy of the Order for Service at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled move date, so that you have an opportunity to read it before signing. It becomes valid only after it has been signed by both the mover and the consumer. Read it carefully. Upon completion of the move, the mover must provide you with a copy of the Bill of Lading. It is a complete record of all fees that were charged and all services that were performed. If you are planning storage as well, they must provide a copy of the Warehouse Receipt (this lists the items to be warehoused, as well as the terms, conditions and storage location).

The method of payment should be confirmed at the time of the estimate.

Tipping is at the discretion of the consumer. While there is no policy or regulation concerning tipping, no mover has the right to demand a tip.

If you pack your own goods, you are responsible for their condition upon arrival. The mover retains the right to refuse transport of such goods if, in their opinion, the goods may be damaged during the move (e.g., unpacked mirrors, china or other fragile items). Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 13:44D-4.6, a mover is required to compensate you only up to $1.00 per pound, per article, unless you have purchased insurance that provides for an increased valuation. Never pack jewelry, money, or valuable papers with your goods; movers are not responsible for items of extraordinary value. Such items are specifically not covered under the terms of the Order for Service and most types of insurance.

Per State regulation, the mover's mandated minimum liability is $1.00 per pound, per article, for all intrastate moves and applies in most cases, unless the goods have been packed by the consumer. For example, if a vase weighing six pounds is damaged, the consumer is legally entitled to $6.00 (6 lbs. X $1.00) worth of liability. If you wish to insure your goods, you can: (a) select an independent broker of your own choice; (b) purchase insurance through the mover, if the mover offers it; or (c) you may already be covered if you have a homeowner's policy. If the mover sells the consumer insurance, the mover must issue a Certificate of Insurance (also known as Advice of Coverage), which stipulates the terms of the policy. You are advised to discuss with your insurance agent the amount and type of insurance you should purchase and the amount of the deductible, if any.

If a mover is delayed, for whatever reason, the mover's only obligation is to contact the consumer no later than 12 noon on the date of the move, or if impractical under the circumstances, at the earliest possible time.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration of the Federal Highway Administration has primary jurisdiction over interstate moves. To file a complaint, you may contact (609) 275-2604 or visit their website at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.

The self-storage industry and PODS (Portable on Demand Storage) are not State-regulated industries. As with any contract, you are urged to read it carefully before signing and make sure you understand the terms regarding fees, fee increases, and disposal of goods for over-payment.