What Happens When The Moving Truck Is Too Small?
Moving companies do a lot of prep work to make sure everything goes smoothly on your moving day. Still, mistakes do occur, and one that occasionally happens is the truck that is set aside to move your belongings ends up being too small. Here's what you can expect the company to do in this situation.
Multiple Trips or Multiple Trucks
There are three possible solutions to this problem: the company will send a bigger truck, send a second truck, or make multiple trips. What they ultimately choose to do, though, depends on several factors, such as:
- How many items are left to load
- The destination
- Time schedule
- Truck and personnel availability
- Budget
For instance, they may choose to make multiple trips if the destination is only a short drive away and they can still complete the job in the agreed-upon time. On the other hand, if you're moving to another state, they may opt to send a second vehicle to get the remaining items and then repack everything into a larger truck at the depot.
Regardless of how the problem is ultimately resolved, be sure you have a clear understanding of what is happening. If the solution involves material changes in circumstances—e.g. the job will take longer to complete or cost more money—have your contract amended to reflect these changes.
There May Be Additional Fees
As you can imagine, fixing this type of mistake comes with a cost. Who covers that cost, though, depends on how the situation came about. If the consultant who evaluated your home underestimated the volume of items you had and ordered the wrong-sized truck, then the company will typically absorb the cost of their error.
However, if not having enough room in the truck is the result of you adding more items than previously planned for—you forgot a bunch of boxes stored in your attic, for instance—then you would be expected to cover any additional fees required.
Everyone makes mistakes, and the company will likely work with you to make the cost more bearable if the error is your fault. Again, though, make sure you get any changes in writing to ensure you and the movers are on the same page.
As noted previously, movers do a lot of work to prepare for the job, but it's always a good idea to follow up close to the moving day to iron out any last-minute issues. For help with your relocation needs, contact a local mover.