A dresser rides in a standard load. A grand piano, a pool table or a hot tub does not. Movers group those items under a heading like bulky article so the estimate can account for the extra crew, equipment and time they take.
A tariff term, not a federal one
The federal definitions in 49 CFR 375.103 do not define bulky articles. The term lives in carrier tariffs, which 375.103 describes as the issuance containing the rates, rules and classifications for a motor carrier's transportation services. Each tariff names which items count, and what the added handling costs. That is why two movers can list different items under the same words.
What the mover must tell you
Section 375.505(e) says the mover, its agent or the driver must inform the shipper if it reasonably expects a special or accessorial service is necessary to safely transport a shipment. The mover must refuse the shipment if you decline a service it reasonably expects to be necessary, and it makes a written note of the refusal. The rule protects the item as much as the crew: an oversized piece moved without the right equipment is the piece most likely to be damaged.
Items that commonly qualify
O'Brien's moves pianos, organs, pool tables, hot tubs, fine art and household appliances. See specialty moving for how each is handled.
- Pianos and organs
- Pool tables, which are taken apart and re-leveled
- Hot tubs
- Large appliances and glass display cabinets
- Fitness equipment and oversized outdoor items
How to keep it off the surprise list
List every oversized piece at the estimate, including what is in the garage, shed or yard. Give the real dimensions and the path out: a doorway measured at 30 inches decides whether a sectional exits whole. Mention stairs, tight turns and gates. The itemized estimate then shows each bulky article as its own line, and the inventory recorded at loading matches what was priced.
Disclosure also protects value
If a bulky piece is worth more than 100 dollars per pound, the FMCSA booklet explains that it is an article of extraordinary value and has to be listed in writing to be fully covered. A custom antique cabinet is the classic case. See high value inventory.