Moving across state lines puts your move under federal jurisdiction — specifically, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Understanding the federal regulations that apply to your move gives you a clear picture of your rights and the carrier's obligations.
FMCSA Jurisdiction Begins at State Lines
Intrastate moves (entirely within one state) are regulated by that state's laws, which vary significantly. Interstate moves are regulated by federal FMCSA rules, which apply uniformly. This guide covers federal regulations for interstate moves.
What Movers Are Required to Provide
- "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" — FMCSA-published consumer guide that movers must provide before booking
- Written binding or non-binding estimate — verbal estimates have no legal standing for interstate moves
- Order for service — the pre-move contract specifying services, price, and terms
- Bill of lading — issued at pickup; the contract of carriage and the governing document for the move
- Inventory list — documenting the condition of your belongings at pickup
- Arbitration program — movers must offer arbitration for loss and damage claims
Price Protection Rules
For binding estimates: the carrier cannot charge more than the binding amount at delivery. Period. For non-binding estimates: the carrier cannot require payment of more than 110% of the estimate before releasing your goods. Any amount above 110% can be billed but must be paid within 30 days after delivery — they cannot hold your shipment for the excess.
Delivery Timeline Rules
Movers must provide a delivery window. They have 30 business days after your first available delivery date (FADD) to deliver without being in violation. If they miss your agreed delivery window without notice, you have grounds for a claim.
Claims Rights
You have 9 months from delivery to file a loss or damage claim. The carrier has 30 days to acknowledge and 120 days to resolve. If unsatisfied, you can proceed to arbitration or court.