AES (Automated Export System)
The electronic system used to file export information with U.S. Customs for shipments above certain value thresholds.
Arbitration
A dispute resolution process where a neutral third party reviews evidence and makes a binding decision.
Bill of Lading
The official contract between you and the mover that outlines the terms, conditions, and details of the move.
Binding Estimate
A written estimate guaranteeing the total cost of a move based on the listed services and items.
BOC-3
A form filed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) designating a legal agent for service of process in each state.
Carrier’s Liability
The mover’s responsibility for loss or damage to your goods, limited by the valuation option selected.
Customs Declaration
An official form declaring the contents, value, and purpose of goods entering a country.
DBA (Doing Business As)
An alternate name under which a company operates, different from its legal corporate name.
Duty
A tax imposed by a government on imported goods.
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)
A device used by commercial drivers to record driving hours and ensure compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.
Export Declaration
A required filing that provides details of goods being exported from the U.S., often submitted through AES.
FMC (Federal Maritime Commission)
The U.S. government agency that regulates ocean transportation intermediaries (freight forwarders and NVOCCs).
Freight Forwarders
Companies that arrange the movement of goods internationally, handling documentation, customs, and logistics.
Full Value Protection
A valuation option in which the mover is liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods.
Gross Weight
The total weight of a moving truck after it has been loaded with goods.
HOS (Hours of Service)
Federal regulations governing the maximum hours commercial drivers can operate.
Import Regulations
The rules and requirements set by a destination country for goods entering its borders.
Motor Carrier Number
A unique identifier issued by the FMCSA to authorized interstate carriers.
Net Weight
The weight of your shipment after subtracting the tare weight (empty truck) from the gross weight (loaded truck).
Non-Binding Estimate
An estimate that provides an approximation of moving costs but is not guaranteed; final charges are based on actual weight and services provided.
NVOCC (Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carrier)
A licensed intermediary that arranges ocean transport without operating its own ships.
Operating Authority
The legal authorization issued by the FMCSA for a company to engage in interstate or international transport.
Order for Service
A document authorizing the mover to transport your goods under the terms of the estimate provided.
OTI (Ocean Transportation Intermediary)
A U.S. FMC-licensed entity that includes freight forwarders and NVOCCs handling international shipments.
Proof of Residence
Documentation such as a visa, lease, or utility bill used to establish eligibility for duty-free importation of household goods in many countries.
Released Rates
A free valuation option that limits mover liability to 60 cents per pound per article.
Tare Weight
The weight of a moving truck when empty, used to calculate the actual shipment weight.
TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
The U.S. agency responsible for aviation security; regulates air freight shipments.
USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation)
The federal agency overseeing interstate and international transportation, safety, and compliance.
US Export Regulations
Laws and requirements that govern the export of goods from the United States, including filing, security, and licensing.
Valuation
The level of mover liability you choose for your goods, such as Released Rates or Full Value Protection.
Written Estimate
A mover’s official written calculation of the anticipated cost of your move.
Disclaimer: The definitions provided here are for consumer education only and may not reflect the most current legal or regulatory standards. Always verify specific requirements with your TrustedMovePro and the appropriate regulatory authority.
Last updated: August 18, 2025