FMCSA's booklet describes accessorial services as those you request or that are necessary because of landlord requirements or special circumstances. They are the reason a moving estimate has more than one line.
What falls into this group
Each item is added when your home calls for it, so two houses with the same weight can have very different accessorial totals.
- Packing and unpacking, with cartons priced separately
- Stair, elevator and long-carry handling at either address
- Shuttle service when a full-size truck cannot reach the door
- Appliance preparation by a third party
- Handling a piano, pool table or other heavy item
When they must be settled
Section 375.401(f) requires the mover to determine accessorial charges such as elevators and long carries before preparing the bill of lading, on both binding and non-binding estimates. A mover that fails to ask and to determine those charges must deliver the goods and bill you after 30 days for the additional amount.
This is the reason an estimator asks about parking, stairs and elevators on the first visit.
Expected versus surprise
Federal rules also require the bill of lading to include a complete description of special or accessorial services ordered, and a mover must tell you if it reasonably expects such a service is needed to move your goods safely. If you refuse a service the mover judges necessary, the mover must refuse the shipment and write down your refusal.
New needs on moving day are handled in writing: the mover explains the additional services and gives you at least one hour to decide whether to buy them.
Accessorial services with O'Brien's
O'Brien's lists packing, crating, piano and pool table handling and other services as separate lines on an itemized estimate, so each accessorial service has its own entry. Supplies such as boxes and wrap are sold at the Sparks office, and the in-home estimate includes 10 free heavy-duty boxes.
Walk the estimator through every entrance, hallway and staircase. Call 775-359-6683 to arrange the visit.