Your Rights When Moving Interstate: FMCSA Rules Explained

Who regulates interstate movers

Interstate household-goods movers must register with FMCSA, hold a USDOT number and operating authority, and follow the consumer protection rules in 49 CFR Part 375. Moves entirely within California are regulated by the state instead.

Information movers must give you

• FMCSA's "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" information (movers may provide it electronically, e.g. a link).
• FMCSA's "Ready to Move" brochure.
• A written estimate.
• A description of their arbitration program and complaint-handling procedures.
• An order for service and a bill of lading.

Types of estimates

Binding estimate: a guaranteed price for the items and services listed. If you add items or services, the mover may revise it before loading.

Non-binding estimate: the mover's reasonable approximation; your final cost is based on the actual weight and services. At delivery, the mover cannot require you to pay more than 110% of the written non-binding estimate to receive your goods. Any remaining balance is billed later — no sooner than 30 days after delivery.

Binding not-to-exceed estimate: you pay the lower of the binding estimate or the actual weight-based charge. This is sometimes called a "guaranteed not to exceed" estimate.

Arbitration

Interstate movers must offer an arbitration program to settle certain loss-and-damage disputes. For claims up to a set dollar amount, arbitration can be binding if you request it.

Official sources

For the authoritative rules, read FMCSA's Protect Your Move resources at protectyourmove.gov and the regulation itself, 49 CFR Part 375.