Terms of Service
General Conditions of Contract
These Terms of Service ("Agreement") constitute a legally binding agreement between Next Phase Moving ("Carrier", "we", "us") and the customer ("Shipper", "you") identified on the Order for Service or Bill of Lading.
By scheduling service, signing an estimate, or tendering goods to the Carrier, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these terms, as well as the Rights & Responsibilities mandated by federal law.
2. Scope of Services
Transportation: Carrier agrees to transport the household goods described in the Estimate from the origin to the destination.
Accessorial Services: Packing, unpacking, appliance servicing, and hoisting are separate services. Unless explicitly included in a Binding Estimate, these services are billed at the Carrier's published tariff rates.
Subcontracting: Carrier reserves the right to utilize authorized agents or subcontractors to fulfill any part of the service engagement.
3. Cancellation & Rescheduling
Time is of the essence in the logistics industry. When you book a move, we reserve truck space and crew specifically for you.
Deposits: All deposits are fully refundable if the cancellation request is received more than 72 hours prior to the scheduled move date.
Late Cancellation Fee: Cancellations made within 72 hours of the scheduled service date will forfeit the deposit.
On-Site Cancellation: If services are cancelled after the crew has arrived at the origin, a minimum charge of three (3) hours of labor plus the travel fee will apply.
4. Payment Terms
Due Date: Pursuant to Federal Regulations (49 CFR 375.407), payment is due before the shipment is unloaded at the destination.
Forms of Payment: We accept Cash, Cashier's Check, Money Order, or major Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex). Personal checks are NOT accepted unless pre-approved in writing 14 days prior to the move.
Right of Lien: The Carrier holds a general lien on all property transported for all charges due under this Agreement. Carrier has the right to retain possession of the goods until all charges are paid in full.
5. Shipper Obligations
Presence: The Shipper or their authorized agent must be present at both the time of pickup and delivery to verify services and sign documents.
Packing by Owner (PBO): If the Shipper packs their own boxes, the Carrier is not liable for damage to the contents unless there is visible external damage to the box caused by Carrier negligence. Boxes must be properly sealed and labeled.
Appliance Preparation: It is the Shipper's responsibility to disconnect and prepare major appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators) for transport. Carrier crews are strictly prohibited from disconnecting gas lines or water lines.
6. Prohibited Items
For safety and regulatory reasons, the Carrier will not transport the following items. It is the Shipper's responsibility to remove these items prior to the crew's arrival:
- Hazardous Materials: Gasoline, propane tanks, oxygen tanks, paint, thinners, matches, ammunition, or explosives.
- Perishables: Frozen foods, refrigerated foods, produce, or open food containers.
- Living Things: Pets, livestock, or plants.
- Valuables: Cash, jewelry, medication, or personal financial documents (passports, deeds).
7. Dispute Resolution
Arbitration: Any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to the loss or damage of household goods shall be settled by arbitration administered by a neutral third party approved by the FMCSA.
Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by Title 49 of the United States Code and the laws of the State of Washington, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.
End of Agreement
Next Phase Moving • Kent, WA • USDOT 4454165