Before an interstate move, expect a written estimate, FMCSA consumer-rights materials, tariff and arbitration information, complaint procedures, and later a bill of lading and inventory. Local New York requirements differ.
Yes. A broker arranges transportation but does not transport your belongings, and FMCSA warns that a broker may fail to place the job with a carrier. Verify who will actually move you before moving day.
Yes. Cash, certified check, money order, cashier’s check or approved cards may be accepted, depending on the mover. For interstate moves, the accepted payment method should be disclosed in the estimate, order for service and bill of lading.
Quick AnswerWhat should I do if my mover won’t deliver my belongings?First determine whether the move is interstate and what amount is actually due at delivery under the written estimate and shipment documents. FMCSA says an interstate mover must release the shipment when the customer pays the lawful amount due at delivery.
Three written moving quotes are a useful starting point for comparison, as long as each mover is pricing the same inventory, services, access and dates.
Ask about licensing, who will perform the move, estimate type, included services, price-change rules, building logistics, valuation and cancellation terms before booking.
Book movers as soon as your move date is reasonably stable. Peak dates, interstate moves, building logistics, packing, storage and specialty items usually need more lead time.
Use FMCSA complaint history as a risk signal: verify the exact company first, then compare complaint type, recency and repetition before booking.
A moving company physically transports household goods; a broker arranges transportation with a carrier. Both can operate legally on interstate moves, but you should know which one you are hiring and who will actually handle the shipment.
Before an interstate move, verify the carrier in FMCSA’s mover database, confirm household-goods authority and insurance, and review complaint information instead of relying on a USDOT number alone.
