46.2-2157 - Estimate of charges; penalties; information booklet for shippers.
§ 46.2-2157. Estimate of charges; penalties; information booklet for shippers.
A. Household goods carriers may, upon request of a shipper, cause to be givento such shipper an estimate of the charges for proposed services in themanner and form specified in this section:
1. The estimate may be made only after a visual inspection of the goods bythe estimator or be based upon information furnished to the carrier by theshipper.
2. If a written estimate is furnished, across the top of each form thereshall be imprinted, in bold type, the words "ESTIMATED COST OF SERVICES."
3. The name, address and phone number of the carrier providing the estimatemust be shown in a legible manner on each estimate form.
4. Imprinted thereunder in regular type shall be words to the effect"IMPORTANT NOTICE: This estimate covers only the articles and serviceslisted. It is not a guarantee that the actual charges will not exceed theamount of the estimate. However, carriers may bind the estimate and guaranteethat charges may not exceed the bound estimate except for any accessorialtariff charges incurred at destination that are not known to the carrieruntil actual delivery of the shipment and a sight survey reveals thatadditional charges are necessary to effect delivery as published in thecarrier's tariff. Household goods carriers are required by law to collecttransportation and other incidental charges computed on the basis of ratesshown in their lawfully published tariffs. Charges for additional serviceswill be added to the transportation charges."
5. The original or a true legible copy of each estimate form prepared inaccordance with this section may be delivered to the shipper and a copythereof shall be maintained by the carrier as part of its record of shipment.
B. If the carrier provides a shipper with a written estimate, the carrierwill give to the shipper an information booklet that has been approved by theDepartment and will obtain a receipt therefor from the shipper. Such receiptwill become a part of the permanent file of the carrier.
(2001, c. 596; 2006, c. 609.)