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                        Protect Your MoveIn This Section
        Planning Your Move
                                Learn About Moving Fraud
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                Tips for a Successful Move
		

		
		
					
							
		
		
					Image of two parents and a daughter throwing packing peanuts in the air while sitting in their empty house next to a yellow picture of bubble wrap with the text overlay “Tips for a Successful Move”



1. Know your rights and responsibilities before selecting a household goods carrier (mover) or household goods broker (broker)

Before moving your belongings to a new state, movers and brokers are required to give you the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet. This booklet will help you understand the documents that a mover will ask you to sign and explain your rights if your items are lost or damaged.



Image of two men in overalls and baseball hats wrapping a yellow couch with plastic wrap

2. Learn to spot the red flags of moving fraud.

Don't know what the red flags are? **Check out our educational video** and handy **list of red flags**.







3. Be sure the  mover and broker are  registered with FMCSA

Check to see if the moving company is registered, as well as for insurance information and any complaint records, by searching our database of registered movers and brokers, or calling FMCSA at (800) 832-5660.

All interstate household goods movers and brokers must be registered with FMCSA. Make sure the mover you select has been assigned a U.S. DOT number, is registered with FMCSA to allow them to transport household goods between states and has the proper level of insurance. Make sure the broker you select has been assigned a U.S. DOT number, is registered with FMCSA to allow them to broker household goods shipments between states and has the proper level of insurance.

Avoid movers and brokers that do not show U.S. DOT numbers in their advertisements.

Be informed and aware of your options when selecting a reputable mover or broker. While most household moves go smoothly, there are dishonest or "rogue" movers and brokers you should be aware of.

4. Read and understand all information provided by a mover or broker

The mover should provide you with the following basic written documents as part of your move:

Image of a clip board with a pen that says "estimate" and "total".
			Estimate

			The estimate should clearly describe, in writing, all charges for services the mover will perform. Make sure the estimate is signed by the mover. Do not accept verbal estimates.Image of a bill
			Bill of Lading

			The bill of lading is a contract between you and the mover and a receipt of your belongings. You should be given a partially completed copy of the bill of lading before the mover leaves the residence at origin.Image of two moving boxes
			Inventory

			Your mover must prepare an inventory of your shipment. This is usually done at the time the mover loads your shipment. The mover is required to list any damage or unusual wear to any items. After completing the inventory, both you and the mover must sign each page of the inventory.5. The broker should provide you with the following written document as part of your move:

Image of a pen and clip board with a checklist that say "estimate" and "total".
			Estimate

			The estimate should clearly describe, in writing, all charges for services the mover will perform. Make sure the estimate is signed by the mover. Do not accept verbal estimates.6. Do NOT sign blank documents

Review each document to ensure all information is correct before signing anything.

7. Make sure you understand the type of liability you agree to.

Liability means that movers are required to cover the cost of any goods that are lost or damaged during your move. However, there are two different levels of liability for interstate moves. Image of TV with a crack on the bottom right corner

Ask yourself if 60 cents per pound enough coverage for all your household goods in case the unexpected happens. Your mover must offer you the option of Full Value Protection, which will provide you with the replacement value of lost or damaged goods.

You may also purchase insurance from a third-party insurance company. Before purchasing third-party insurance, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if you’re already covered.

8. Supervise the process.

Watch the loading and unloading of your household goods. If you are not available, ask someone you know to act on your behalf.

9. Use our free tools.

Download our **Successful Move Guide** and **Moving Checklist** to use as you plan your move, on moving day and on delivery day.

>> Next: Consumer Rights & Responsibilities
		
		

    
		
    
					Last updated: Thursday, March 14, 2024 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

**Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration**

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