Federal law gives you specific rights on an interstate move. Know the documents that protect you.
The Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the contract between you and your mover and the receipt for your goods. It lists services, terms, and charges. Never sign a blank BOL, and keep your copy until delivery and any claims are resolved.
The Order for Service
This document authorizes the move and lists the agreed services, dates, and estimated charges. You should receive a copy before moving day.
The inventory
At pickup the mover creates a detailed inventory of your items and their condition. At delivery you check items off and note any loss or damage. Review it carefully — it is the key evidence for any claim.
Valuation: how much the mover owes if something breaks
Valuation defines your mover's liability. There are two standard options:
- Released Value Protection — free, but limited to 60 cents per pound per article. A heavy but cheap item is well covered; a light but valuable one is not.
- Full Value Protection — costs extra, but the mover must repair, replace, or pay the current value of lost or damaged items.
Estimates and the 110% rule
On a non-binding move, the carrier cannot require more than 110% of the estimate at delivery before releasing your goods. The balance, if any, is billed afterward.
Filing a claim
You generally have nine months to file a claim for loss or damage; the carrier must acknowledge it within 30 days and resolve it within 120.
Read every document before you sign. These protections only work if you use them.