Look up a mover with FMCSA
Enter a USDOT number to open the official FMCSA record in a new tab.
You can also search by name on FMCSA Protect Your Move.
Movers vs. brokers
A mover, also called a household goods carrier, transports your belongings. A broker sells you a move and hands it to a carrier. Brokers are legal and must register with FMCSA, but you should know who will actually handle your goods. Ask directly: "Are you the carrier, and will your trucks and crews move my things?"
Red flags and scams
- A quote over the phone or online with no inventory, especially one far below others
- Demands for a large deposit or cash before the move
- No physical address, or a company name that doesn't match its FMCSA registration
- No written estimate, or blank spaces on documents you're asked to sign
- Not providing the FMCSA "Your Rights and Responsibilities" booklet
- A rental truck shows up instead of a company vehicle, with no explanation
Your rights
Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Movers must give you the booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move, offer a written estimate, and follow federal rules on estimates, delivery and claims.
Binding vs. non-binding estimates
A binding estimate fixes the price for the goods and services listed. A non-binding estimate is an approximation, and your final bill depends on actual weight and services. Federal rules limit how much a mover can require you to pay at delivery on a non-binding estimate. Either way, an accurate inventory is your best protection.
If your goods are held hostage
If a mover refuses to deliver unless you pay far more than agreed, stay calm and document everything. File a complaint with FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database, contact your state attorney general and local police, and keep copies of every document and message.
Claims after delivery
Note any damage or missing items on the delivery paperwork before signing. Federal rules give you time to file a written claim with the mover. Photos from before the move help.
Printable safety checklist
- Look up the company's USDOT number on FMCSA and confirm it's authorized for household goods
- Confirm whether it's a mover (carrier) or a broker
- Get a written estimate based on an inventory, not a phone quote
- Receive the FMCSA booklet 'Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move'
- Understand valuation coverage options before you sign
- Avoid large cash deposits before pickup
- Read the bill of lading before signing at pickup
- Check the inventory and note damage on paperwork at delivery
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a mover and a broker?
A mover (carrier) owns or operates trucks and transports your goods. A broker arranges the move with a carrier but doesn't transport anything. Both must be registered with FMCSA for interstate moves, and brokers must say they are brokers.
What is a binding estimate?
A written estimate that sets your price for the listed goods and services. A non-binding estimate is an approximation; the final cost depends on actual weight and services, within limits set by federal rules.
What do I do if a mover holds my goods hostage?
Contact FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database, your state attorney general, and local law enforcement. Keep all paperwork. FMCSA rules limit how much a mover can demand at delivery on non-binding estimates.
Ready to turn this into a plan?
Build a dated, week-by-week roadmap for your move. Or tell us about your move and we'll connect you with independently licensed, FMCSA-registered interstate movers, who give the quotes.