How to File a Moving Damage Claim: Steps and Deadlines (2026)

Moving claims guide · Updated October 2026

How to file a moving damage claim: document the damage, file in writing within nine months for interstate moves, and know the deadlines your mover must meet.

Federal rules give you real protections when an interstate mover damages or loses your belongings. Here’s how to file a claim step by step, what to expect, and what to do if the mover doesn’t treat you fairly.

Start Your Claim

Key Deadlines for Interstate Moves

Step	Deadline
You file a written claim	Within 9 months of delivery
Mover acknowledges your claim	Within 30 days of receiving it
Mover pays, denies or makes a firm offer	Within 120 days, unless it notifies you in writing of a delay

For moves within one state, claim rules come from state law and your contract, so file quickly and in writing either way.

How to File a Moving Claim, Step by Step

1. Note damage at delivery

Inspect your belongings as they come off the truck. Write any missing or damaged items on the inventory or delivery receipt before you sign. Notations at delivery strengthen your claim, but you can still file for damage you discover later.

2. Document everything

Photograph damaged items, boxes and packing material from several angles. Keep the damaged items and packaging until the claim is settled so the mover can inspect them.

3. Gather your paperwork

You’ll need the bill of lading, the inventory, your estimate, and receipts, appraisals or repair estimates showing value.

4. File a written claim with the mover

Send the claim to the mover, not the crew or a broker. Include your name, shipment or bill of lading number, a list of damaged or missing items, and the amount you’re claiming. Keep a copy and proof of when you sent it.

5. Track the deadlines

For interstate moves, the mover must acknowledge your claim within 30 days and resolve it within 120 days. Follow up in writing if you don’t hear back.

6. Escalate if needed

If you disagree with the result, use the mover’s required arbitration program, file a complaint with the FMCSA, or contact your state consumer protection office.

Your coverage determines your payout. With full value protection, the mover must repair, replace or pay the current value of damaged items. With released value coverage, it pays only 60 cents per pound per item. See how moving insurance works.

What to Include in Your Claim

Your name, contact information and new address
The mover’s name and your shipment or bill of lading number
Pickup and delivery dates and addresses
Each damaged or missing item, with a description of the damage
The amount you’re claiming and how you calculated it
Photos, receipts, appraisals and repair estimates

Common Reasons Claims Are Reduced or Denied

Released value coverage limits payment to 60 cents per pound.
Boxes you packed yourself with no outside damage may not be covered.
High-value items not listed on the inventory may have limited coverage.
Missing documentation or no record of the damage.
Late filing after the deadline.

If the Mover Won’t Pay Fairly

Arbitration

Interstate movers must offer a dispute settlement program. Ask the mover for details in writing.

FMCSA complaint

File a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Consumer Complaint Database.

State help

Your state attorney general or consumer protection office can help, especially for in-state moves.

Legal options

Small claims court or an attorney may be an option for larger losses.

Prevent Problems on Your Next Move

Choose full value protection and don’t sign a released value waiver without understanding it.
Check the mover’s USDOT number and complaint history before you book. See what to know before hiring movers.
Know whether you’re dealing with a mover or a broker. See movers vs. brokers.
Photograph valuables before the move and carry irreplaceable items yourself.

Compare reputable movers

Get quotes from vetted long-distance movers for your next move.

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Understand your coverage

Full value vs. released value, explained.

Moving Insurance Guide

Moving Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a moving claim?

For interstate moves, you generally have nine months from the delivery date to file a written claim with the mover. For in-state moves, deadlines depend on state law and your contract, so file as soon as possible.

How long does a mover have to respond to a claim?

For interstate moves, the mover must acknowledge your written claim within 30 days and pay, deny or make a firm settlement offer within 120 days. If it needs longer, it must tell you in writing why.

What if the mover denies my claim or offers too little?

Interstate movers must offer an arbitration program you can use to resolve disputes. You can also file a complaint with the FMCSA, contact your state attorney general or consumer protection office, or consult an attorney about small claims or other legal options.

Can I throw away damaged items before the claim is settled?

Avoid it if you can. The mover may want to inspect damaged items. If you must dispose of something, photograph it thoroughly first and get the mover’s written agreement.

Will I get full replacement value?

Only if you have full value protection. Under released value coverage, the mover pays just 60 cents per pound per item.