USMPO Headquarters
4315 50th Street NW
Suite 100
Washington, DC 20016
4315 50th Street NW
Suite 100
Washington, DC 20016
Email: support@usmpo.org
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The Size of Your Move
When it comes to moving, accurately determining the size of your move is crucial. The U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) is dedicated to assisting shippers of household goods with their interstate or cross-country moves. One of the essential steps in this process is determining how much space the shipper needs on the truck. By understanding the advantages of using cubic feet as a measurement, shippers can make informed decisions and better protect themselves from discrepancies that can cost them much more than they bargained for.
The Importance of Determining the Size of Your Move
Ensuring that you have enough space on the moving truck is vital for the shippers, and equally important for a dispatcher to coordinate a carrier’s supply chain. Accurate estimation of the size of your move allows you to plan appropriately, budget effectively, and avoid any potential complications. By assessing the volume of your belongings, you can determine the appropriate truck size and ensure that all your items can be transported safely, without any delays or extra charges. A USMPO certified relocation assistant is recommended for this.
Why Cubic Feet is More Accurate than Weight
While weight has traditionally been used as a primary measurement for moving, it is often an inadequate metric for determining the volume of a move. Unless an estimator comes to your home with a scale and weighs every item one by one, it will always be inaccurate and end up costing you more. This is because trucks are officially weighed after all your items are on the truck, at the weigh station. If that doesn’t paint the picture, there are several other reasons why cubic feet is a more accurate and reliable measurement than weight:
- Varying Density of Items: Different household items have varying densities, making weight an unreliable indicator of volume. Lightweight but bulky items may occupy a significant amount of space, while heavy but compact items may require less room. Cubic feet accounts for this variation by directly measuring the physical space occupied.
- Non-Transportable Items: Some belongings, such as furniture and appliances, are not easily weighed on their own. Additionally, including the weight of the packaging and moving materials can further complicate weight-based estimates. Cubic feet eliminates the need for precise weighing by focusing on the space occupied.
- Flexibility in Packing: Cubic feet provides greater flexibility when it comes to packing. Shippers can arrange items efficiently to maximize space utilization without the constant concern of exceeding weight limits. This flexibility allows for better organization and protection of delicate or valuable items.
How the USMPO Utilizes Cubic Feet Measurements
The USMPO has recognized the advantages of using cubic feet as a more accurate measurement for determining the size of a move. Shippers are required to provide an itemized inventory, which allows for the calculation of the total cubic foot volume. This measurement is then multiplied by the USMPO standardized rate, which can be found at https://orlx7n.orlx7n.orlx7n.orlx7n.tmmh0a.orlx7n.tmmh0a.tmmh0a.o1g1u4.tmmh0a.o1g1u4.o1g1u4.usmpo.org/usmpo-approved-rates. The resulting cost provides shippers with a transparent and fair cost of their moving expenses.
Accurately determining the size of your move is crucial for a smooth and successful relocation. While weight has traditionally been used as a measurement metric, cubic feet offers a more accurate and reliable estimation of volume. The USMPO recognizes the importance of this measurement and utilizes cubic feet to provide fair rates for shippers of household goods. By understanding the advantages of cubic feet over weight, shippers can make informed decisions, effectively plan their moves, and protect themselves from potential moving fraud.
