The driver will record the conditions of the items in your shipment. Movers use a shorthand "code" to describe these conditions. A typical coding system is provided in the following paragraph. Be sure you understand the coding, and that a finished copy is given to you. Ask to have it explained. (Most condition codes are on top of the inventory list. Ask for a blank page to look over the inventory codes on it.) Any claims related to missing or damaged goods will begin with the inventory. Each item will have a numbered tag on it that corresponds to a number on the inventory list. Check off each item as it comes in your home. It is your right. If exceptions for missing boxes or damaged items are not taken at delivery, your claim may be denied when filed. Document your move via the inventories. Have the driver note any damage or missing items on his (and your) copies of the inventory before he leaves. Inventories are the foundation documents of the moving industry: they are created to protect both parties. (You and the movers.)
Typical inventory codes: BE bent, BR broken, BU burned, CH chipped, CU contents unknown, D dented, F faded, G gouged, L loose, M marred, MI mildewed, PBO packed by owner, CP carrier packed, R rubbed, RU rusted, SC scratched, SO soiled, T torn, W badly worn, Z cracked, MCU mechanical condition unknown.
On loading day, make sure everything is listed on the inventory and that you agree with the descriptions. If you don't agree, make a note on the inventory, and secure a signed copy. Before the van leaves, walk through the house to make sure everything is loaded. This is your responsibility. Once they leave, few moving companies will turn around for something left behind.
Most movers are ethical and honest. They want to provide you with a good move, as much as you want one. In fact, the option I have mentioned in other articles as the best one still holds true: attempt to have the same team pack, load, deliver and unpack your goods. These folks will have a sense of "ownership" about your move, and the lines of responsibility are clearly drawn. Although I won't say "never" to the use of inventories, this move scenario has the least importance on this document. Usually you can just go to the crew leader, with whom you've been dealing, and say "What's up here?" The answer usually will be pretty direct.
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