Terms and Conditions

Terms of Service for Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage

Last Updated: February 19th, 2026.

Agreement to Terms

Welcome to Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage. These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern your use of our website (coutumovers.com) and the moving and storage services we provide. By accessing our website or engaging our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

Please read these Terms carefully before using our services. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, you should not use our website or services. These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you (“Customer,” “you,” or “your”) and Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage (“Coutu Bros.,” “we,” “us,” or “our”).

For specific moving or storage services, additional terms may apply as outlined in your service contract or estimate. In case of conflict between these general Terms and your specific service agreement, the service agreement will control.

Services Provided

Overview of Services

Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage provides professional moving and storage services throughout Rhode Island and interstate locations, including but not limited to:

• Residential moving (local and long-distance)

• Commercial and office relocations

• Apartment moving services

• Packing and unpacking services

• Storage services (short-term and long-term)

• Specialty moving (pianos, antiques, fine art)

• White glove services for valuable items

Service Area

Our primary service area includes Rhode Island and surrounding New England states. Long-distance moving services are available nationwide where we maintain appropriate licensing. Specific service availability may vary by location and should be confirmed during the estimate process.

Licensing and Insurance

Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage is fully licensed and insured:

• USDOT Number: 979213

• MC Number: 566953

• Rhode Island State License: [As applicable]

• Insurance: Comprehensive liability and cargo insurance as required by federal and state regulations

Estimates and Pricing

Estimate Types

We provide different types of estimates based on your moving needs:

Binding Estimates A binding estimate guarantees the total cost of your move based on the services and items identified during the estimate process. The final price will not exceed the binding estimate amount, provided:

• The inventory list is accurate and complete

• Services requested remain unchanged

• Access conditions match those described during estimate

• No additional services are requested on moving day

Non-Binding Estimates A non-binding estimate provides an approximation of costs based on estimated weight, time, or services. Final charges may differ based on actual weight, time required, or services rendered. We provide non-binding estimates when exact inventory cannot be determined in advance.

Not-to-Exceed Estimates This estimate type sets a maximum price that will not be exceeded, while actual charges may be lower if the move requires less time or resources than anticipated.

Estimate Validity

Written estimates are valid for 30 days from the date of issuance unless otherwise specified. After 30 days, estimates may be subject to revision based on price changes, fuel costs, or other factors. We will notify you of any changes before proceeding with services.

Estimate Accuracy

Accurate estimates depend on complete and honest information from you regarding:

• Complete inventory of items to be moved

• Accurate description of access conditions (stairs, elevators, parking, long carries)

• Correct addresses for pickup and delivery

• Any special circumstances affecting the move

Failure to provide accurate information may result in revised pricing or inability to complete services as originally estimated.

Price Changes

Prices may increase if:

• You add items not included in the original inventory

• Access conditions differ from those described (additional stairs, parking restrictions, long carries)

• You request additional services on moving day

• Delays occur due to circumstances within your control

• Additional shuttle service is required due to truck access limitations

We will discuss any price changes with you before proceeding with additional work.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking Your Move

To reserve moving services:

• Request and review a written estimate

• Confirm your moving date and services

• Provide deposit if required (typically for peak season or long-distance moves)

• Sign your service agreement or bill of lading

• Receive confirmation of your reservation

Deposits

Deposits may be required for:

• Long-distance moves

• Peak season reservations (May-September)

• Moves requiring significant planning or custom crating

• Storage services

Deposit amounts typically range from $100 to 25% of the estimated move cost. Deposits are applied to your final invoice.

Cancellation Policy

By Customer:

• More than 7 days before move date: Full refund of deposit (if applicable)

• 3-7 days before move date: 50% refund of deposit

• Less than 3 days before move date: No refund of deposit

• Day of move (no-show): Full deposit forfeited; additional charges may apply

By Coutu Bros.: We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule moves due to:

• Severe weather conditions endangering safety

• Mechanical failures or equipment issues

• Circumstances beyond our control (natural disasters, road closures)

If we cancel, you will receive full refund of any deposit and we will work to reschedule at your convenience.

Rescheduling

You may reschedule your move subject to availability:

• First reschedule (more than 7 days notice): No fee

• Subsequent reschedules or less than 7 days notice: $50-$150 rescheduling fee may apply

Peak season rescheduling is subject to availability and may require additional deposits.

Customer Responsibilities

Before Moving Day

You are responsible for:

Preparation of Items

• Emptying and cleaning refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours before moving

• Draining water from washing machines and water beds

• Disconnecting and preparing appliances for moving (or arranging for qualified technician)

• Emptying dresser drawers if requested (heavy items, breakables)

• Removing items from attics, crawl spaces, and other difficult-access areas

• Defrosting freezers sufficiently in advance

• Securing loose items, closing drawers, and stabilizing furniture

Property Access

• Ensuring clear access at both origin and destination

• Obtaining necessary elevator reservations or building permits

• Arranging appropriate parking for moving trucks

• Providing gate codes, building access information, or keys as needed

• Securing parking permits if required by your municipality

Prohibited Items You must not include in your shipment:

• Hazardous materials (gasoline, propane, paint, chemicals, ammunition)

• Perishable food items

• Plants (for long-distance moves)

• Pets or live animals

• Currency, jewelry, important documents (should travel with you)

• Irreplaceable items of sentimental value (family photos, heirlooms – should travel with you)

• Illegal substances or contraband

Disclosure You must inform us of:

• All items requiring special handling (pianos, antiques, fragile items)

• Access limitations (narrow staircases, no elevator, parking restrictions)

• Long carries exceeding 75 feet from truck to door

• Items requiring disassembly or special equipment

• Building rules or regulations affecting the move

Moving Day

Presence Required You or your authorized representative must be present:

• At pickup to verify inventory and sign bill of lading

• At delivery to accept items and sign delivery receipt

• Throughout the move for questions or access issues

Final Walkthrough You should conduct a final walkthrough of your property after loading to ensure nothing is left behind. We are not responsible for items left in the property after our departure.

Payment Payment is due:

• Local moves: Upon completion, before unloading (unless other arrangements made in advance)

• Long-distance moves: Before unloading at destination (unless other arrangements made in advance)

• Storage services: According to payment schedule outlined in storage agreement

Inspection You should inspect items as they are unloaded and note any concerns on the delivery receipt. This documentation is important for any damage claims filed later.

Our Responsibilities and Limitations

Our Commitments

We commit to:

• Providing professional, trained, and background-checked moving crews

• Arriving on schedule within agreed-upon time windows

• Using appropriate equipment and materials

• Treating your belongings with care and respect

• Following safe moving practices

• Complying with all applicable regulations

• Maintaining required licenses and insurance

Limitations of Liability

Pre-Existing Damage We are not liable for:

• Pre-existing damage to items before moving

• Damage inherent to items’ condition or age

• Defects in manufacturing or construction

• Normal wear and tear from moving

Acts of God and External Factors We are not liable for loss or damage resulting from:

• Natural disasters (hurricanes, floods, earthquakes)

• Acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest

• Government actions or road closures

• Strikes or labor disputes

• Mechanical breakdowns despite reasonable maintenance

• Other circumstances beyond our reasonable control

Improperly Packed Items If you pack items yourself, we are not liable for damage to:

• Contents of boxes you packed

• Items improperly prepared for moving (appliances, furniture)

• Fragile items not disclosed to us

Consequential Damages We are not liable for consequential or indirect damages including:

• Lost wages or business income

• Hotel expenses if delivery is delayed

• Spoiled food due to refrigerator delay

• Rental equipment charges

• Emotional distress or inconvenience

Maximum Liability

Unless you purchase additional valuation coverage, our liability is limited to:

• Interstate moves: $0.60 per pound per article (federal minimum)

• Intrastate moves: As specified in your service agreement and Rhode Island regulations

For example, a 50-pound item would have maximum basic liability of $30 regardless of actual value.

Full Value Protection

We offer full value protection (additional valuation coverage) for an additional fee. Under this coverage, we are responsible for the repair, replacement, or cash settlement of lost or damaged items at current market value. Details and costs are provided during the estimate process.

Claims and Dispute Resolution

Filing Claims

Damage or Loss Claims

To file a claim for damaged or lost items:

Interstate Moves:

• Claims must be filed in writing within 9 months of delivery date

• Send written notice to our claims department with:

• Copy of bill of lading

• Description of damaged/lost items

• Photos of damage (if applicable)

• Original purchase receipts or proof of value (if available)

• Your contact information

Intrastate Moves:

• Claims should be filed within 90 days of delivery for best consideration

• Follow similar documentation requirements as interstate moves

Our Claims Process:

• We acknowledge receipt of your claim within 30 days

• We investigate the claim, which may include inspecting damaged items

• We make a settlement offer, deny the claim with explanation, or request additional information

• If you accept our offer, we process payment within 30 days

Dispute Resolution

Negotiation We encourage resolving disputes through direct communication. Contact our customer service team to discuss concerns before pursuing formal dispute resolution.

Mediation If direct negotiation fails, we agree to participate in mediation through a neutral third party before pursuing litigation. Mediation costs are shared equally between parties.

Arbitration For claims exceeding $5,000, either party may request binding arbitration according to the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Arbitration decisions are final and binding.

Small Claims Court For claims under $5,000, either party may pursue resolution through small claims court in Rhode Island.

Jurisdiction Any legal action must be brought in the state or federal courts located in Rhode Island. Rhode Island law governs these Terms and any disputes arising from our services.

Storage Services Terms

Storage Agreements

Storage services require a separate storage agreement outlining:

• Items being stored

• Monthly storage fees

• Payment terms and due dates

• Access procedures

• Insurance requirements

Storage Fees and Payment

• Storage fees are due monthly in advance

• Late payments may incur late fees of $25 or 5% of monthly fee (whichever is greater)

• Non-payment may result in lien on stored goods according to Rhode Island law

Access to Stored Items

• Access to stored items requires 24-48 hours advance notice

• Access is available during business hours by appointment

• You or your authorized representative must be present during access

Insurance Requirements

• You are responsible for insuring stored items

• Our facility insurance covers the building but not your stored contents

• We can provide information about storage insurance options

Termination of Storage

• Either party may terminate storage with 30 days written notice

• You are responsible for removing items by the termination date

• Final payment must be made before item release

Abandoned Property

If storage fees are unpaid for 90 days or items remain unclaimed after termination:

• We may place a lien on stored items according to Rhode Island law

• Items may be sold at auction to satisfy outstanding debts

• We will provide required legal notice before any sale

Website Use Terms

Intellectual Property

All content on coutumovers.com is owned by Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage or licensed for our use:

• Text, graphics, logos, images, videos

• Website design and layout

• Software and code

• Trademarks and service marks

You may not:

• Copy, reproduce, or distribute our content without permission

• Use our trademarks or branding

• Create derivative works from our website

• Frame or mirror our website on other sites

Acceptable Use

When using our website, you agree not to:

• Provide false or misleading information

• Impersonate another person or entity

• Interfere with website operation or security

• Upload viruses, malware, or harmful code

• Attempt unauthorized access to our systems

• Use automated systems (bots, scrapers) to access our website

• Violate any applicable laws or regulations

User-Generated Content

If you submit content to our website (reviews, comments, testimonials):

• You grant us permission to use, display, and distribute your content

• You represent that content is accurate and does not violate rights of others

• We reserve the right to remove any content at our discretion

• We are not responsible for user-generated content accuracy

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for:

• Content on linked websites

• Privacy practices of third parties

• Services provided by external sites

Visiting linked sites is at your own risk.

Website Availability

We strive to maintain website availability but do not guarantee:

• Uninterrupted access to our website

• Error-free operation

• Absence of viruses or harmful components

• Compatibility with all devices and browsers

We reserve the right to:

• Modify or discontinue website features

• Restrict access for maintenance

• Update website content and design

Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage, its owners, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, or expenses (including reasonable attorney fees) arising from:

• Your violation of these Terms

• Your use of our services

• Your provision of inaccurate information

• Your failure to meet customer responsibilities

• Your violation of any laws or regulations

• Claims by third parties related to your use of our services

Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect. Invalid provisions will be modified to achieve the intent of the original provision to the extent possible.

Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with:

• Your written estimate or service agreement

• Bill of lading

• Storage agreement (if applicable)

• Privacy Policy

constitute the entire agreement between you and Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage regarding our services. These Terms supersede any prior verbal or written agreements.

Waiver

Our failure to enforce any provision of these Terms does not waive our right to enforce that provision or any other provision in the future. Waiver of any breach does not waive subsequent breaches.

Assignment

You may not assign or transfer your rights or obligations under these Terms without our written consent. We may assign these Terms in connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of our business.

Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. When we make changes:

• We will update the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page

• Significant changes will be communicated via email to customers with upcoming services

• Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance

We encourage you to review these Terms periodically to stay informed about our policies.

Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us:

Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage

Address:
2 Greco Lane
Warwick, RI 02886

Phone: (401) 739-7788
Email: info@coutumovers.com

Business Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Acknowledgment

By using our website or services, you acknowledge that:

• You have read and understood these Terms and Conditions

• You agree to be bound by these Terms

• You have the legal capacity to enter into this agreement

• You understand your rights and responsibilities as a customer

For services requiring signed contracts, your signature on the service agreement or bill of lading constitutes formal acceptance of these Terms along with the specific terms outlined in that document.

Thank you for choosing Coutu Bros. Moving & Storage. We look forward to providing you with the professional, reliable moving services Rhode Island families have trusted since 1940.