The estimate is the most important document of your move. It decides what you pay and what happens if something goes wrong. This guide covers the federal rules for interstate moves. For moves within Florida, see Florida moving laws.
Survey first, price second
For an interstate move, the mover should see what you are moving before it gives a price: in your home or by video. Under federal rules, a physical survey is required when your home is within 50 miles of the mover's or its agent's location, unless you waive it in writing. A price given only by phone, after a few questions, is the most common start of a dispute.
Three kinds of estimates
| Estimate | What you pay | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Binding | The price in the estimate | Extra services you ask for later can be added, in writing |
| Non-binding | The actual cost, by weight and services | At delivery the mover can demand at most 110% of the estimate |
| Binding not to exceed | The estimate or less | If the shipment weighs less, you pay less. A binding estimate with a cap |
The 110% rule
With a non-binding estimate, the mover must deliver your goods once you pay 110% of the estimated charges. Any amount above that must be billed later, no sooner than 30 days after delivery. Example from the regulation: estimate $1,000, actual charges $1,500. You pay $1,100 at delivery, and the mover bills the rest afterwards.
Valuation: who pays if something breaks
Valuation is the mover's liability for your belongings. It is not insurance, and it is chosen when you sign the estimate.
- Full Value Protection is the default for interstate moves. The mover must repair the item, replace it, or pay its current replacement value. It costs extra, and movers may limit liability for very valuable items unless you list them.
- Released Value is free, but very limited: the mover pays no more than 60 cents per pound per article. A 10-pound laptop worth $1,000 would bring $6. You get Released Value only if you choose it in writing.
Ask the mover to write the chosen valuation and its cost on the estimate and the bill of lading.
Documents you should receive
- The written estimate, with the company's legal name, USDOT and MC numbers.
- The booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move (or a link to it).
- An order for service before moving day.
- An inventory and the bill of lading at loading. Check them before you sign.
Damage and loss claims
- File your claim in writing within 9 months of delivery.
- The mover must acknowledge it within 30 days and accept, deny or make an offer within 120 days.
- Interstate movers must offer a neutral arbitration program for disputes about loss or damage.
Take photos of valuable and fragile items before packing, and note damage on the delivery receipt while the crew is still there.
Comparing quotes
When you compare, compare the same thing: the same inventory, the same type of estimate and the same valuation. A low non-binding price with Released Value is not cheaper than a binding price with Full Value Protection, it just moves the risk to you.
Ready to compare prices? Choose up to three licensed movers. Only the companies you pick get your contact details.
Get quotesThis guide is general information, not legal advice. Company data on MovingRater comes from public FMCSA records; see How we check movers.