Packers and Movers Glossary — Moving Terms Explained
Every packing-and-moving term you will come across in India, explained in plain language — so you know exactly what you are paying for before you book.
Common packers and movers terms in India include part-load (a shared truck you pay for by space), a dedicated truck (only your goods), the LR/consignment note (your transport receipt), transit insurance (damage cover), and GST (18% that Packerwala does not add). Below, each term is explained simply.
Updated August 2026
What is Part-load (shared truck)?
A part-load move shares one truck between several customers' goods going the same route. You pay only for the space your items use, so it is cheaper than a dedicated truck — ideal for a few items or a small home over long distances.
What is Dedicated truck (full-load)?
A dedicated truck carries only your goods, door to door, with no sharing. It is faster and more direct than part-load, and costs more. Best for full homes (2 BHK and above) or urgent moves.
What is LR / Consignment Note (Lorry Receipt)?
An LR is the transport document a mover issues when your goods are loaded for an intercity move. It lists the goods, route and parties, and acts as proof of booking and handover. Always collect your LR copy.
What is Transit insurance?
Transit insurance covers your goods against damage or loss while they are being moved. Premiums are a small percentage of the declared goods value. Packerwala moves include basic protection via Packerwala Shield, with higher cover available.
What is GST on packers and movers?
Most movers add 18% GST on top of their quote for a full-service move. Packerwala shows one all-inclusive price with 0% GST added to you — the price you see is the price you pay.
What is All-inclusive fixed price?
A single quoted price that already includes packing, loading, transport, unloading and basic insurance — with nothing added later. It removes the guesswork of separate line items and move-day surprises.
What is Advance and balance?
A small advance (on Packerwala, 15%, minimum ₹500) confirms your booking and is part of the total — never an extra charge. The balance is paid after delivery, securely to Packerwala rather than in cash to a driver.
What is Door-to-door service?
The mover collects your goods from your current home and delivers them right inside your new home — including loading and unloading at both ends — rather than to a warehouse or transport hub.
What is Packing charges?
The cost of materials (bubble wrap, cartons, corrugated sheets, tape) and the labour to pack your goods safely. In an all-inclusive quote this is already covered, not billed separately.
What is Warehousing / storage?
Secure short- or long-term storage of your goods in a monitored godown when your new home is not ready. It is billed monthly by the space used, plus a one-time move-in/move-out handling cost.
What is Local vs intercity move?
A local move stays within the same city (typically up to ~150 km) and is usually completed the same day. An intercity move is between cities over longer distances and takes 2–6 days depending on the route.
What is Protected (escrow) payment?
Your balance is paid to Packerwala, not directly to the driver, and released to the mover only after your move is complete — so your money and goods stay protected end to end.
Know the terms? Get your fixed price.
One all-inclusive price, no GST, no jargon.