§ 20-176.96. Estimates of moving costs.

(a)

A mover shall provide to the shipper a written estimate of the transportation and accessorial service costs for moving the shipper's household goods. No mover shall charge for preparing an estimate unless, prior to preparing the estimate, the mover:

(1)

Clearly and conspicuously discloses in writing to the customer the amount of the charge for preparing the estimate or, if the amount cannot be determined, the complete basis upon which the charge will be calculated; and

(2)

Obtains the customer's written authorization on the written estimate to prepare an estimate.

(b)

It is unlawful for a mover to require a shipper to waive shipper's right to a written estimate. A shipper cannot waive the shipper's right to a written estimate.

(c)

The written estimate provided to the shipper shall, at a minimum, include the following:

(1)

The total cost for transportation and accessorial services to be provided.

(2)

A description of the transportation and accessorial services to be provided.

(3)

A listing of the basis for which any charges may be assessed for the transportation and accessorial services to be provided.

(4)

The following in bold capitalized letters of at least twelve-point type:

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

UNDER COUNTY ORDINANCE YOU ARE ENTITLED TO A WRITTEN ESTIMATE OF THE TOTAL COST OF YOUR MOVE AND A COPY OF THE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT. PLEASE REVIEW THESE DOCUMENTS TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE COMPLETE.

(d)

A copy of the estimate, signed by the mover, shall be delivered to the shipper prior to performing any transportation or accessorial service and a copy shall be maintained by the mover as part of its records.

(e)

Nothing in this division shall be construed to require a customer to enter into a contract for service with a mover based upon the issuance of an estimate.

(f)

The estimate and disclosure may be provided on the same form as the contract for service.

(g)

No mover shall provide an oral estimate to any customer or shipper.

(h)

The mover shall provide to the consumer, at the time of performing an estimate, a copy of the Moving Consumer Bill of Rights and Disclosure Statement on its letterhead, in the form approved and as amended by the Broward County Consumer Affairs Division.

(i)

Failure to present the Disclosure Statement shall constitute a violation of this Section and shall be subject to civil penalties described in this Chapter.

(Ord. No. 94-34, § 1, 7-12-94; Ord. No. 2001-08, § 5, 3-13-01; Ord. No. 2004-03, § 1, 2-10-04)