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CONSUMER MOVING GUIDE

Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Know which documents to review, what questions to ask your interstate mover, and how to document a concern if something goes wrong.

Know Your RightsRequired Documents
YOUR MOVING CHECKLIST

Understand your rights before moving day

01

Receive written moving documents

Review the estimate, order for service and bill of lading. Ask for explanations before signing.

02

Understand liability options

Interstate movers must explain applicable valuation options. Review the limitations and any additional charges.

03

Know the delivery arrangements

Confirm the agreed pickup and delivery details, contact information and how changes are handled.

04

Have a way to raise concerns

Keep documentation and contact the mover promptly about missing or damaged items, charges or service concerns.

PAPERWORK MATTERS

Important interstate moving documents

Read each document carefully and keep a copy. Federal requirements can vary depending on the move and the carrier's role.

FMCSA Consumer Resources
  • Written estimate
  • Order for service
  • Bill of lading
  • Inventory and condition notes
  • Valuation selection and related terms
  • Receipts and claim correspondence
IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG

How to document a moving complaint or claim

1

Document the issue

Photograph damage, note missing items and retain your inventory and paperwork.

2

Contact the mover

Ask for the carrier's written claims or complaint process and applicable deadlines.

3

Keep a record

Save emails, claim submissions, supporting documents and responses.

For interstate moves, review current FMCSA guidance for the applicable federal rules and complaint options. This guide is general information, not legal advice.

Complaints & Claims Help
COMMON QUESTIONS

Moving rights FAQs

What should I review before signing a bill of lading?

Check the shipment details, agreed services, charges, valuation selection, pickup and delivery information, and any referenced terms.

What if my belongings arrive damaged?

Document the damage, retain packing and shipment records, and follow the mover's written claim process within applicable deadlines.

Where can I check federal interstate moving guidance?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides official consumer information at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.

QUESTIONS BEFORE YOUR MOVE?

Plan your move with clearer expectations.

Discuss your moving needs and ask about the written estimate, services and documentation before booking.

Explore Interstate Moving Costs

Long-distance moving resource

Use your moving documents as a decision tool

Consumer information is most useful before you sign. Review the mover information, estimate, bill of lading and other documents carefully so you understand the services, responsibilities and procedures that apply to your interstate shipment.

01

Confirm who is handling the move

Check the company information shown on your documents and understand who is responsible for transportation. Keep copies of the paperwork provided before pickup.

02

Read before signing

Do not rely only on verbal explanations. Review service descriptions, valuation or liability choices, payment terms, pickup and delivery information and any conditions that could affect charges.

03

Keep records through delivery

Maintain your inventory, receipts, photographs and communications until the move is complete and any questions are resolved. Official consumer resources should be used alongside your contract and shipment documents.

Plan with the full move in view

Use this information as part of a broader long-distance moving plan. The strongest comparisons come from consistent move details: the same addresses, inventory, dates and requested services across each estimate.

Keep the relevant moving documents and planning notes together as the move progresses. That makes it easier to confirm what has been requested, what is included and which questions still need an answer.

Use consumer protections before moving day

Interstate moving documents are meant to be reviewed before the shipment is loaded. Read the estimate, bill of lading, valuation or liability information, payment terms and pickup and delivery details. Confirm the company information on your paperwork and keep copies of everything you sign. If a term is unclear, ask for an explanation before agreeing to it.

Keep your inventory, photos, receipts and communications through delivery. Official consumer guidance can explain general rights and responsibilities, while your signed documents describe the terms for your specific move. Using both sources together gives you a clearer record of what was requested and agreed.