How to File a Moving Damage Claim — Deadlines and Process
Your furniture is scratched, a box of dishes is crushed, and your television does not turn on. Damage during a move is frustrating, but you have legal rights. Filing a claim correctly — with the right documentation, within the right deadlines — is the difference between getting compensated and getting nothing.
Step 1: Document at Delivery (Critical)
The most important thing you do happens before the driver leaves. On delivery day:
- Check every item against the inventory sheet as it comes off the truck.
- Note any damage on the inventory sheet before signing. Write "damaged" or "missing" next to specific items. Be specific: "dining table — deep scratch on surface, 12 inches" not just "damaged."
- Photograph everything. Take photos of damaged items with timestamps. Include close-ups and wider shots showing the item and its label/number from the inventory.
- Do not refuse delivery of damaged items. Accept them and document the damage. Refusing delivery complicates the claim process.
- Keep all paperwork: Bill of lading, inventory sheet, estimate, and any receipts.
If the driver pressures you to sign without inspecting, do not comply. You have the right to inspect your belongings before signing the delivery receipt.
Step 2: File a Written Claim
You must file a written claim with the moving company within 9 months of delivery. This is a federal deadline — miss it and you lose your right to compensation.
Your claim should include:
- Your name and contact information
- The move dates and company's DOT/MC number
- A list of every damaged or missing item
- Description of the damage to each item
- The replacement value or repair cost for each item
- Copies of photos taken at delivery
- Copy of the inventory sheet with your damage notations
- Receipts for the original purchase of damaged items (if available)
Send the claim by certified mail or email with delivery confirmation. You need proof that the company received it.
Step 3: Wait for the Company's Response
Federal law sets clear timelines:
- 30 days: The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim in writing.
- 120 days: The mover must make a final offer or deny the claim.
If they miss these deadlines, document it. It strengthens your position in arbitration or court.
How Much You Will Receive
Your compensation depends on which valuation coverage you chose:
- Released Value (basic): 60 cents per pound per item. A 50-pound TV = $30. This is why Released Value is nearly worthless.
- Full Value Protection: The mover must repair, replace, or pay the current market value of the item.
If Your Claim Is Denied or Underpaid
- Request arbitration. Federal law requires interstate movers to participate in an arbitration program. This is low-cost or free dispute resolution. The arbitrator's decision is binding on the mover.
- File a complaint with the FMCSA. This goes on the company's permanent record.
- File with your state attorney general. State consumer protection offices can investigate patterns of denied claims.
- Small claims court. For damages under your state's small claims limit, you can sue without a lawyer.
- Dispute through your credit card company if you paid by card.
Items You Packed Yourself
Claims for "packed by owner" (PBO) items are frequently denied. The mover will argue they cannot verify how the item was packed and therefore cannot accept responsibility. To protect yourself:
- Have the mover pack high-value and fragile items
- If you pack yourself, follow proper packing techniques
- Photograph items before and during packing to show they were properly protected
- Consider third-party moving insurance that covers self-packed items