01
Know your moving rights
Before choosing an interstate mover or broker, read the FMCSA Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet. It explains key paperwork and what to do if belongings are lost or damaged.
Official FMCSA resource MOVING SMARTER STARTS HERE
9 Smart Tips for a Successful Move.
A practical guide to choosing a mover, understanding your paperwork, protecting your belongings and moving with confidence.
MOVE WITHCONFIDENCE
PLAN AHEADCHECK THE DETAILSPROTECT YOUR MOVE
YOUR MOVING SAFETY GUIDE
Good moves begin with good decisions.
Moving to a new home is a major step. The right preparation helps you spot warning signs, ask better questions and understand what you’re signing. These nine practical tips are inspired by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s consumer guidance for interstate household moves.
THE ESSENTIALS
9 things to know before you move.
Clear advice. No guesswork.
02
Recognize moving-fraud warning signs
Be cautious of vague pricing, pressure to sign quickly, missing registration details or requests to sign incomplete documents. Review FMCSA’s moving-fraud resources before committing.
Official FMCSA resource03
Verify your mover’s registration
For an interstate move, check the mover or broker’s USDOT number, FMCSA registration, insurance details and complaint history using the official federal lookup.
Official FMCSA resource04
Understand every moving document
Ask for a signed written estimate. Read the bill of lading, which serves as your contract and receipt, and review the inventory describing your belongings and their condition.
Official FMCSA resource05
Check broker estimates carefully
If you work with a moving broker, obtain a written estimate that clearly describes services and charges. Understand which company will actually transport your shipment.
Official FMCSA resource06
Never sign blank paperwork
Do not sign documents with missing prices, blank fields or incomplete terms. Confirm names, dates, addresses, inventory and service details before signing.
Official FMCSA resource07
Choose the right level of protection
Understand the difference between Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection for interstate moves. Ask what coverage means for your shipment before making a selection.
Official FMCSA resource08
Stay involved on moving day
Supervise loading and unloading when possible. If you cannot attend, arrange for a trusted representative to be present and review the shipment paperwork.
Official FMCSA resource09
Use trusted planning tools
Keep a checklist, moving inventory, written estimates and important contacts together. FMCSA also offers a Successful Move Guide and Moving Checklist.
Official FMCSA resource
BEFORE YOU SIGN
Three documents worth reading closely.
01
Written estimate
Review the services and charges before accepting.
02
Bill of lading
Understand the contract and receipt for your shipment.
03
Inventory
Check the item list and condition notes before signing.
QUICK SELF-CHECK
Are you ready to book?
Use this short checklist before confirming your interstate move.
Download Moving Checklist ↓COMMON QUESTIONS
Moving safety FAQs.
Clear answers to the questions people ask before hiring an interstate moving company.
Explore FMCSA consumer resources ↗How can I check if an interstate moving company is registered?
Use the FMCSA mover search tool to look up the company by its USDOT number or name. Review registration information and available complaint history before booking.
What documents should I receive before an interstate move?
Ask for a written estimate and review the bill of lading and shipment inventory. Read all terms, services, charges and dates before signing.
What are common warning signs of moving fraud?
Be cautious about unusually low estimates, pressure to sign quickly, missing USDOT information, blank paperwork and unclear pricing or payment terms.
What is the difference between Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection?
These are different levels of mover liability for an interstate shipment. Full Value Protection generally offers broader responsibility subject to its terms, while Released Value Protection provides limited liability. Ask the mover to explain both options before choosing.
Should I sign a blank bill of lading or inventory?
No. Review the documents and ask that missing information be completed or corrected before signing.
What should I do if my belongings are damaged during the move?
Document the damage, retain your paperwork and contact your mover about the claims process promptly. Review the applicable filing deadlines and FMCSA consumer guidance.
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Get in Touch ↗Independent educational content inspired by FMCSA’s Tips for a Successful Move. This page is not affiliated with or endorsed by FMCSA.
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