Tariff

The tariff is the master pricing document behind every written estimate. For local moves, it sets the hourly rate, the 2-hour minimum, the proration unit (typically 15 minutes), and the accessorial schedule (stair fees, long carry, hoist, shuttle). For long-distance moves, it sets the per-hundredweight rate by distance band, the mileage charge, and the same accessorial schedule. Tariffs are filed with the appropriate regulator and are available for inspection. The carrier cannot charge more than the published tariff allows; the written estimate is built from the tariff and the specific scope of the customer’s move.

The tariff is what stops a carrier from charging arbitrarily on move day. Federal regulation (49 CFR 375) for interstate carriers and Texas Transportation Code Chapter 643 for intrastate carriers both require that charges follow the published tariff. If a Bill of Lading bills above tariff rates for a service, the customer can dispute it through the regulator. The tariff also keeps competing carriers comparable: customers comparing written estimates can ask which tariff each is built from and see whether one carrier is using buried accessorials the other is not.

Muscleman Elite operates under a published tariff filed with TxDMV for Texas intrastate work and FMCSA for interstate work. Our written estimates are built directly from the tariff — hourly rate, 2-hour minimum, 15-minute proration, and accessorials for stairs, long carries, hoists, crating, and shuttles — with no off-tariff surcharges. The tariff is available on request for any customer who wants to review the rate structure in detail.

Can a moving carrier charge above the tariff?

No — federal regulation for interstate carriers and TxDMV rules for Texas intrastate carriers both require charges to follow the published tariff. If a Bill of Lading bills above tariff for a service, the customer can dispute the charge through the regulator.

How do I see a mover’s tariff?

Ask the carrier directly — reputable movers will provide the tariff on request. For interstate carriers, FMCSA also maintains tariff records. Comparing tariffs from competing carriers reveals which rate structures are clean and which bury fees in accessorials.

Does the tariff change?

Tariffs are updated periodically by the carrier and re-filed with the regulator. Once your written estimate is issued, the rates on that estimate apply to your move regardless of any later tariff change. The estimate locks the pricing.