What is the bill of lading for an interstate move?

It is the transportation contract. It records the parties, shipment, services, payment terms, and other move details, so read it before loading and keep a copy with you.

Is mover valuation the same as moving insurance?

No. Valuation describes the mover's level of responsibility for loss or damage under the contract. Separate insurance may work differently; review the actual terms before choosing.

How should I document damage at delivery?

Write visible exceptions on delivery paperwork, photograph the item and packaging, retain relevant documents and receipts, and follow the carrier's written claim instructions and deadlines.

FMCSA Interstate Moving Rights: Documents, Valuation, and Claims (2026)

Before booking: estimate and required information

For an interstate household-goods move, ask for a written estimate based on a meaningful survey of the shipment. The inventory, services, dates, and access conditions should be recognizable. You should also receive information explaining federal rights and responsibilities before the move.

Keep the estimate you accepted and any revisions. If the scope changes, request an updated written explanation rather than relying on a phone promise.

Before loading: order, contract, and inventory

The order for service records key move arrangements. The bill of lading is the contract for transportation and should identify the parties, shipment, payment terms, and other move details. Read it before loading begins and keep your copy outside the shipment.

Compare legal names and numbers with your independent verification.
Make sure pickup and delivery windows match your understanding.
Review the mover's item inventory and condition notes before signing.
Never sign a blank or materially incomplete form.

Start with a documented route

See a modeled range, then request written quotes only if you choose. Keep every estimate tied to the same inventory.

Estimate My Move

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Choose valuation with the actual shipment in mind

Released-value and full-value protection allocate risk differently. The lowest-cost default can provide very limited recovery for a heavy but valuable item. Full-value protection may involve repair, replacement, settlement rules, deductibles, and declared high-value items.

Ask how pairs, sets, electronics, owner-packed boxes, and high-value articles are handled. Keep proof of condition and ownership for items that would be difficult to replace.

At delivery: make the record while the facts are visible

Reconcile the inventory as items arrive. Note missing or visibly damaged pieces on the delivery documents, take photographs, and keep packaging when it helps show the damage. Follow the mover's written claim process and deadlines rather than relying only on verbal notice.

A dispute is easier to explain when the estimate, contract, inventory, photographs, receipts, and written communications all describe the same shipment.

Questions from the route

Frequently asked questions

It is the transportation contract. It records the parties, shipment, services, payment terms, and other move details, so read it before loading and keep a copy with you.

Start with a documented route

See a modeled range, then request written quotes only if you choose. Keep every estimate tied to the same inventory.

Estimate My Move

Or call Call (561) 220-0117, no email required to see your number.