Thompson & Scott Delivery Partners: What to Know Before You Move

Thompson & Scott is a moving company based in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial relocations

Thompson & Scott Delivery Partners operates as a full-service moving company serving South Carolina and surrounding regions. The company handles household goods moves, commercial relocations, and specialty items. Like other movers in the state, they charge based on distance, weight, and the complexity of your move—not a flat rate.

Before booking any mover, you should understand how they price their services, what their insurance covers, and what happens if something goes wrong during transport. This guide walks you through what to expect when working with a moving company and how to prepare for your move.

Key Takeaways

• Moving companies in South Carolina typically charge by weight and distance, so get a written estimate before committing to any mover.
• Federal law requires interstate movers to carry specific insurance, but intrastate moves may have different protections depending on South Carolina regulations.
• Packing your own items usually costs less than having the mover pack for you, but the mover is not responsible for damage to items you packed yourself.
• Request an in-home or virtual estimate rather than a phone quote, since movers price based on the actual volume and weight of your belongings.
• Check the mover's licensing and complaint history with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before signing a contract.

How moving companies price their services

Most movers charge based on the weight of your belongings and the distance traveled. Some also add fees for services like packing, unpacking, or moving specialty items such as pianos or pool tables. A mover cannot give you an accurate price over the phone—they need to see what you are moving.

Request an in-home estimate or a virtual estimate where the mover can see your rooms and furniture on video. Write down the estimate in writing, including what is covered and what costs extra. If the final bill is significantly higher than the estimate, ask the mover in writing why before paying.

Insurance and liability: what is actually covered

Federal law requires interstate movers to carry liability insurance, but the amount of coverage varies. South Carolina intrastate movers may operate under different rules. Before booking, ask the mover what their liability coverage is and whether it covers full replacement value or only a percentage of the item's worth.

Most standard moving insurance covers only a small amount per pound of damaged goods—often far less than the item's actual value. You can usually purchase additional coverage for high-value items like art, antiques, or electronics. Get the insurance terms in writing and understand what you would need to prove a claim (usually photos, receipts, or appraisals).

Packing options and your responsibility

You can pack your own belongings, have the mover pack everything, or split the work. If you pack items yourself, the mover is typically not responsible for damage to those items during transport. If the mover packs your items, they are responsible for damage caused by their packing or handling.

Full-service packing (where the mover supplies boxes and materials and does all the packing) costs more but transfers liability to the mover. Partial packing—where you pack some items and the mover packs others—should be clearly documented in your contract so both parties know who packed what.

What to do before moving day

Confirm your moving date and time in writing at least two weeks before the move. Provide the mover with accurate information about access to your current home and your new location—narrow hallways, stairs, elevators, or restricted parking all affect how the move goes and may change the price.

Take photos and videos of your belongings before the move, especially high-value items. Create an inventory list and keep it with you on moving day. If the mover creates an inventory, review it carefully and note any items that arrive damaged or missing before signing off.

Checking a mover's background and complaints

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) maintains a database of licensed movers and their complaint histories. You can search for Thompson & Scott Delivery Partners or any mover on the FMCSA website to see their licensing status, safety ratings, and any complaints filed against them.

South Carolina also has consumer protection laws that cover moving companies. If you have a dispute with a mover, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Attorney General's Office or the Better Business Bureau. Keep all contracts, estimates, and receipts in case you need to file a claim.

What happens if something goes wrong

If items arrive damaged or missing, notify the mover in writing within the timeframe specified in your contract—usually 30 days. Provide photos of the damage and copies of receipts or proof of value. The mover will investigate and either repair, replace, or compensate you based on their liability coverage.

If the mover refuses to respond or you disagree with their settlement offer, you can escalate the complaint to the FMCSA, the South Carolina Attorney General, or pursue small claims court. Having documentation—photos, the original estimate, the final invoice, and written communication—makes your case stronger.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Thompson & Scott is licensed to operate in South Carolina?

Search the FMCSA database online using the company name or their USDOT number. The database shows whether they are licensed, their safety record, and any complaints. You can also contact the South Carolina Department of Transportation to verify intrastate licensing if the move is within the state.

Can I negotiate the moving price?

You can request a quote from multiple movers and compare prices, which may give you leverage to negotiate. Some movers offer discounts for off-peak moves (weekdays or months outside summer) or for flexible moving dates. Always get the final price in writing before signing a contract.

What should I do if the final bill is much higher than the estimate?

Ask the mover in writing to explain the difference. If the weight or distance was significantly underestimated, they may charge more, but they should have documented this on moving day. If you believe the charge is unfair, file a complaint with the FMCSA or the South Carolina Attorney General before paying.

Do I have to use the mover's packing materials?

No, you can use your own boxes and materials if you pack yourself. If you use your own materials for items the mover is packing, clarify this in writing so there is no confusion about liability. Some movers charge extra if you provide your own materials because they cannot may provide the quality of the packing.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my move?

Review your contract for the cancellation policy before booking. Most movers allow cancellations with notice, but may charge a fee if you cancel close to the moving date. Rescheduling is usually easier than canceling, but confirm the new date in writing and ask whether any fees apply.