It's one of the most stressful situations in consumer fraud: your moving company has your belongings on their truck and is demanding more money than you agreed to before they'll deliver. This is called a "hostage load," it's illegal, and you have specific legal rights.
What Just Happened and Why It's Illegal
Under FMCSA regulations (49 CFR 375.213), a mover cannot withhold delivery of your household goods to collect charges that exceed the amount on your bill of lading plus 10% (for non-binding estimates) or the amount on your binding estimate. Demanding additional payment above these limits and holding your goods until you pay is illegal extortion.
What to Do Right Now
- Do not panic and do not pay the inflated amount — paying validates the scam and may waive your right to dispute
- Get everything in writing — demand a written explanation of every additional charge
- Locate your bill of lading — this is the document that governs your move and specifies the agreed price
- File a complaint with FMCSA immediately at protectyourmove.gov or 1-888-368-7238
- Contact your state attorney general — most have consumer protection divisions with moving fraud experience
- Document everything — photos, call logs, emails, the bill of lading, your original estimate
Your Legal Rights Under FMCSA
You have the right to inspect your shipment at delivery before paying. You have the right to pay by check or credit card (movers cannot require cash on delivery). For binding estimates, you cannot be required to pay more than the binding estimate amount plus any legitimately authorized additional services. For non-binding estimates, you cannot be required to pay more than 110% of the estimate.
If the Company Won't Deliver
If the company refuses to deliver after you've paid the legally required amount, this becomes a civil matter. An attorney specializing in consumer fraud or transportation law can file for an injunction requiring delivery. Small claims court is an option for lower-value disputes. FMCSA and state attorneys general have authority to take enforcement action against carriers who violate these regulations.
How to Prevent This From Happening
The most reliable prevention is booking with a direct carrier, getting a binding estimate, verifying the USDOT number, and keeping a copy of your bill of lading. Read our full guide on moving scam red flags.