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The Company That Moves You

It is important to check into the background of a moving company before making the final selection for the job. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and local state agencies regulate moving companies and should be contacted to find out your rights and responsibilities and also to file a complaint if a problem arises.

If the move is between two states (interstate), you can contact the U.S. DOT (1 888 368-7238) to find out if the company you are considering is insured for such moves. You can also check to see if any complaints were filed against that company. If the move is completely within one state (intrastate), contact your State Attorney General’s Office to find out which agency regulates moving companies. If the move is local, check out the company with the Better Business Bureau and the consumer protection office.

Once you have selected the company, you need to know what you can expect from it. Price, date guarantees, and loss and damage rights are all addressed in the U.S. DOT pamphlet entitled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.”