OAR 740-060-0040: Estimates of Charges

(1) Estimates must be prepared by the carrier when requested by the shipper. Estimate forms must be retained for three years with the freight bill for inspection by the Department’s staff. Estimates must be: (a) Free of charge; (b) Provided in writing in hard copy or electronic form; (c) Given only after an in-person or virtual inspection as agreed to with the shipper of the household goods to be shipped. If the inspection is performed virtually, the household goods motor carrier must be able to view the household goods through live or pre-recorded video that allows it to clearly identify the household goods to be transported. (d) Non-binding; final charges must be based upon tariff rates filed with the Department; and (e) Accompanied by an addendum when additional services are added and not included in the original estimate. An addendum must be provided at the origin address unless the additional service(s) are required at the destination address. Addendum estimates must be provided in hard copy or electronic form. An addendum estimate must be signed by the shipper. (2) Underestimates for service. A carrier must not provide underestimates for service. An underestimate occurs when the charge assessed by the carrier exceeds the original estimate and addendum estimates for service by more than 10 percent. (3) When full or partial payment is due upon delivery and the total tariff charges exceed estimated and addendum charges by more than 10 percent, a shipper may request deferment of the excess amount for 15 days. The shipper must pay the estimated charges plus 10 percent at the time of delivery. The carrier must relinquish possession of the shipment, when the estimated charges plus 10 percent is received. The 15-day extension does not include Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays as specified in the carrier’s tariff.