Long distance moving is stressful enough without worrying about problems with your moving company. Each year, thousands of people file complaints about movers who break promises, damage belongings, or try to charge extra fees.
The good news? Federal laws protect you during long-distance moves. In this article, you’ll learn about your rights and what to do if something goes wrong during a long-distance move.
Your Long Distance Moving Rights Under Federal Law
Moving companies must follow strict federal rules when handling long-distance moves. These rules, set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), give you specific rights and protections. Understanding these rights helps you spot and stop unfair treatment before it becomes a bigger problem.
Written Estimates
You have the right to get a written estimate before your move. Moving companies must give you either a binding estimate (a fixed price that won’t change) or a non-binding estimate (which could change based on actual weight). The estimate must show:
- All expected charges
- Payment terms
- Delivery dates
- Insurance options
Watch out for movers who only give verbal estimates or who say “We’ll figure out the price later”. These are big red flags that could signal a scam.
Delivery Windows and Timing
Moving companies must give you a delivery window—usually a spread of days when they’ll deliver your things. For long-distance moves, they must deliver your belongings within 21 days of your agreed pickup date. If they’re late, moving companies should tell you why there’s a delay, give you a new delivery date, and offer compensation if your items need storage.
Payment Protection for Long Distance Moving
Your money deserves protection too. Federal law sets clear rules about how and when moving companies can collect payment. Knowing these rules helps you avoid scams and unfair charges that could cost you hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars.
Moving companies cannot:
- Force you to pay huge deposits (usually no more than 10-20% is normal)
- Demand cash-only payment
- Hold your belongings hostage for extra money
- Charge more than 110% of a binding estimate
When Things Go Wrong with Long Distance Moving
Even with careful planning, problems can arise during a long-distance move. Whether it’s unexpected charges, late deliveries, or damaged items, knowing how to handle these situations can help you get them resolved quickly and fairly.
Price Increases After Loading
If the company tries to charge much more after loading your things into the moving truck, remind them that they can’t charge more than 110% of a binding estimate. For non-binding estimates, they must honor the price they quoted for the estimated weight.
Missed Delivery Windows
If the moving company misses their promised delivery window, make sure to document every day that your items are late. Keep a record of:
- All conversations with the moving company
- Expenses you have because of the delay (like hotel stays or restaurant meals)
- Emails and text messages about the delay
Damaged or Lost Items
Take photos of any damage as soon as you notice it. Don’t throw away damaged items until your claim is settled. You usually have 9 months to file a claim for damage or loss.
Check out our complete guide detailing what to do when your items are damaged during a move.
Filing Complaints
Sometimes talking to your moving company isn’t enough to solve the problem. When this happens, you have several options for filing formal complaints. Knowing where and how to file these complaints can help you get the resolution you deserve.
FMCSA Complaint Process
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration doesn’t just make rules—they also enforce them. Their complaint process is designed to address serious issues with interstate moving companies and protect other consumers with similar problems.
To file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration:
- Go to the FMCSA website
- Fill out their complaint form
- Include copies of your moving contract and other paperwork
- Keep your complaint number for follow-up
Other Reporting Options
Beyond the FMCSA, several other organizations can help when you have problems with a moving company. Each option serves a different purpose and might be better suited for your specific situation.
You can also file complaints with:
- Your state’s consumer protection office
- The Better Business Bureau
- Local police (if the company is holding your things hostage)
- Small claims court (for damages under your state’s limit)
Protecting Yourself When Long Distance Moving
The best way to handle moving problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Taking certain steps before and during your move can save you from headaches and hassles later.
Before the Move
Before your move begins, carefully research any moving company you’re considering. Look up their license number on the FMCSA website and read customer reviews. Get written estimates from at least three different movers to compare prices and services.
When reviewing contracts, read every detail before signing. The agreement should clearly state all services, pickup and delivery dates, and total costs. Take photos of valuable items before they’re packed, noting any existing damage, and make sure you understand your insurance options.
During the Move
During the move itself, stay present and involved in the process. You have the right to watch your items being loaded and to verify the inventory list is correct. Professional movers should welcome this oversight. Make notes about the condition of your items as they’re loaded, and keep copies of every document you sign.
While these steps take extra time, they’re much easier than dealing with problems after they happen.
Conclusion
Remember, legitimate moving companies want you to understand your rights. If a company seems annoyed when you ask questions or demand your rights, that’s a big warning sign. Look for movers who explain things clearly and follow the rules.
If you have problems during your move, stay calm but firm. Keep detailed records of everything that happens. Take photos and notes. Save all emails and texts. The more evidence you have, the better chance you have of solving problems and getting compensation if things go wrong.
Want to learn more? Visit the FMCSA website or contact your state’s consumer protection office. They can give you more detailed information about your rights and help you find licensed, trustworthy moving companies.
