The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Regulations

The FMCSA requires household goods carriers to provide shippers with certain documents, including a written estimate of charges, a bill of lading, and an inventory of items being transported.

The bill of lading is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of the move, including the pick-up and delivery dates, the agreed-upon cost, and the valuation of the goods being moved.

Shippers have the right to receive a copy of the bill of lading and inventory before the shipment leaves, and carriers must obtain the shipper's signature on these documents.

Shippers should carefully read and understand all documents provided by the carrier before signing them, including the estimate, bill of lading, inventory, and all other completed documen

Customer Responsibilities

Shippers are responsible for preparing their household goods for transportation, including packing and labeling items.

If the shipper packs their own items, they are responsible for ensuring that they are packed securely and that the carrier is made aware of any fragile items.

Shippers must inform the carrier of any items that are not to be moved, and must ensure that their pets and plants are properly cared for during the move.

Shippers must be present during the loading and unloading of their household goods, and must be available to answer questions and provide directions to the movers.

Notify your utility companies, internet, and cable providers of your move and arrange for service transfer or disconnection.
Update your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, and any other relevant institutions.
Dispose of hazardous materials such as propane tanks, paint, and cleaning supplies in a safe and environmentally-friendly manner.
Label boxes with their contents and the room they belong in for easy unpacking.
Pack a box of essential items that you will need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.

Moving Day:

Carefully read the information on the estimate, bill of lading, inventory, and all other completed documents before you sign them.
Accompany the movers as they inventory your household goods and resolve any questions regarding the condition of materials being moved.
Inform the driver and the moving company of how you can be reached during the move.
Be present to answer questions and give directions to the movers.
Stay until they finish.
Give the driver directions to your new house.
Before the moving truck leaves, take one final look throughout the house to make certain nothing has been left behind.
Keep the bill of lading until your goods are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled.

Delivery:

Pay the driver, according to the terms of your written binding or non-binding estimate, before your goods are unloaded.
Be present to answer any questions and give directions.
Supervise unloading and unpacking of your goods.
Note on the inventory list all boxes or items that are damaged or missing before you sign any documents.
Check that all utilities are working and arrange for any necessary repairs or installations.
Celebrate your new home!