The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the federal agency that regulates the long-distance moving industry. Understanding what it does — and what it doesn't do — helps you use it effectively before and after you hire a mover.
What FMCSA Does
FMCSA licenses and monitors interstate household goods carriers and brokers. Every legitimate long-distance mover must register with FMCSA, maintain current insurance, and comply with regulations governing estimates, contracts, delivery, and claims. FMCSA maintains a public database (safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) where you can verify any carrier's status, insurance, and complaint history.
Key Regulations That Protect You
- Movers must provide written estimates — verbal estimates have no legal standing
- Movers cannot charge more than 110% of a non-binding estimate before releasing your goods
- Movers must give you a copy of "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before booking
- Movers must offer arbitration for claims up to $10,000
- Movers cannot hold your goods for non-payment of charges that exceed your bill of lading
What FMCSA Doesn't Do
FMCSA is a regulatory body, not a consumer protection hotline with immediate enforcement power. Filing a complaint creates a record and can trigger investigations, but FMCSA cannot typically resolve individual disputes in real time. For active hostage load situations, contact local law enforcement and your state attorney general as well.
How to Use FMCSA Before You Book
Go to safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. Enter the company's name or USDOT number. Check: operating status (active), insurance status (current), carrier authorization (household goods), and complaint history. This is a two-minute process that eliminates a large category of moving fraud.