How to Read Your Moving Contract

Updated 2026. Based on FMCSA regulations, federal case law, and analysis of contract clauses from movers in Trunk's database.

TLDR

Your moving contract (Bill of Lading) is a legal document that controls the entire move. The most important things to check: estimate type (binding not-to-exceed is best), valuation coverage (Full Value Protection, not Released Value), delivery window (must be in writing), and payment terms (never cash-only). Watch for anti-chargeback clauses, non-disparagement clauses, and mandatory arbitration in distant jurisdictions.

Clause-by-Clause Breakdown

Every moving contract contains these eight core clauses. Here is what each one says, what it actually means, and the red flag version you should watch for.

Clause	What It Says	What It Means	Red Flag Version
Estimate type (binding vs non-binding)	States whether the price is guaranteed or an approximation based on estimated weight/volume.	A binding estimate locks the price. A non-binding estimate means the final cost can change based on actual weight. A binding not-to-exceed estimate is the best option for consumers.	Non-binding estimate with no weight verification option, or a binding estimate that includes language allowing the mover to 'revise' on moving day.
Liability / valuation coverage	Specifies whether your belongings are covered under Released Value ($0.60/lb) or Full Value Protection (replacement value).	Released Value means a broken 50-lb TV worth $1,500 gets you $30. Full Value Protection covers the actual replacement cost, minus any deductible.	Pre-checked Released Value waiver with no clear explanation of Full Value Protection. The carrier must give you a meaningful choice between coverage levels.
Pickup and delivery windows	Lists the date range during which the mover will pick up and deliver your belongings.	For long-distance moves, delivery windows of 7 to 21 days are common. The mover is only late if they miss the window stated in the contract.	No delivery window specified, or language that says 'delivery dates are estimates only and not guaranteed.' If the window is not in the contract, it does not exist.
Payment terms	Specifies deposit amount, balance due timing, and accepted payment methods.	Most movers collect a deposit at booking and the balance at delivery. Federal law requires interstate movers to accept payment by credit card, cashier's check, or money order at delivery.	Cash-only payment required, full payment demanded before delivery, or deposit exceeding 30% of the total estimate.
Cancellation and refund policy	States the deadline for cancelling the move and the conditions for receiving a deposit refund.	Most legitimate movers allow cancellation with a full refund 48 to 72 hours before the move date. The policy should be clear and specific.	No cancellation clause at all, non-refundable deposit regardless of when you cancel, or cancellation fee that equals the entire deposit.
Claims filing deadline	Specifies how long you have to file a damage or loss claim after delivery.	Federal law gives you 9 months from delivery to file a written claim for interstate moves. The mover must acknowledge within 30 days and resolve within 120 days.	Contract deadline shorter than the federal 9-month minimum, or language that requires you to note all damage at delivery or forfeit your claim rights.
Dispute resolution / arbitration	Describes how disputes between you and the mover will be resolved, often through binding arbitration rather than court.	FMCSA requires movers to participate in an arbitration program. Arbitration can be faster than court, but binding arbitration means you waive your right to sue.	Mandatory binding arbitration with a provider chosen solely by the mover, or arbitration that must take place in a distant city (making it impractical for you to participate).
Additional charges / accessorial fees	Lists extra fees for stairs, long carries, shuttle service, elevator use, packing, and bulky items.	These fees are legitimate, but they must be disclosed in the estimate. If they appear on the contract but were never discussed, the mover may be padding the final bill.	Vague language like 'additional charges may apply' with no specifics, or fees that were not mentioned during the estimate process.

Binding vs Non-Binding Estimates Explained

Non-Binding Estimate

An approximation. Final cost is based on actual weight. The mover can collect up to 110% of the estimate at delivery. Any amount above 110% must be billed separately within 30 days.

Consumer risk: moderate. Weight can be verified, but the final bill may exceed the estimate.

Binding Estimate

Locks in the total price. The mover cannot charge more than the binding amount, even if actual weight or volume exceeds the estimate. However, the mover can charge more if the items shipped differ from those listed on the estimate.

Consumer risk: low, unless the mover claims additional items or services were added.

Binding Not-to-Exceed

The best option. The price is capped at the estimate, but if actual weight comes in lower, you pay the lower amount. You get the ceiling of a binding estimate with the downside protection of a non-binding one.

Always request this type.

The 110% Rule

Under FMCSA regulations (49 CFR 375.405), when you have a non-binding estimate for an interstate move, the mover cannot collect more than 110% of the written estimate at delivery. Here is how it works in practice:

Example: Your non-binding estimate is $4,000. On delivery day, the actual charges based on weight come to $5,200.

The mover can collect at delivery: $4,400 (110% of $4,000).

The remaining $800 must be billed to you within 30 days. You then have 30 days to pay.

If the mover demands the full $5,200 at delivery and refuses to unload until paid, they are violating federal law.

Contract Traps to Watch For

Anti-Chargeback Clauses

Some contracts include penalties for filing a credit card dispute. The clause may state that a chargeback triggers a fee (often $250 to $500), forfeits your right to file a damage claim, or makes you liable for the mover's legal costs. While enforceability varies, the presence of this clause signals a company that expects disputes.

Non-Disparagement Clauses

These clauses prohibit you from leaving negative reviews or making negative public statements about the mover. Some include financial penalties ($500 to $5,000) for violations. The Consumer Review Fairness Act (2016) makes many such provisions unenforceable in consumer contracts, but their presence in the contract is itself a warning sign.

Mandatory Arbitration in a Distant Jurisdiction

Some contracts require disputes to be resolved through arbitration in the mover's home city, which may be hundreds of miles from where you live. This makes it impractical and expensive to pursue a claim. FMCSA requires movers to offer arbitration, but the process should be accessible. Look for arbitration clauses that specify a neutral, nearby location.

What to Negotiate Before Signing

1.Estimate type. Request a binding not-to-exceed estimate. If the mover only offers non-binding, make sure the 110% rule and 30-day billing timeline are clearly stated in the contract.
2.Valuation coverage. Choose Full Value Protection. Make sure the contract clearly states the declared value, the deductible amount, and what the mover must do to repair, replace, or compensate for damaged items.
3.Delivery window. Get a specific date range in writing. If the mover misses the window, the contract should specify what compensation you receive (per diem for hotel costs, meals, etc.).
4.Removal of problematic clauses. Ask the mover to remove or modify anti-chargeback, non-disparagement, and distant-jurisdiction arbitration clauses. A reputable company will agree. If they refuse, that tells you something.
5.Accessorial fee caps. If the estimate includes stair fees, long carry fees, or shuttle fees, ask for a cap on each one. This prevents surprises on moving day.
6.Payment by credit card. Confirm the contract allows credit card payment at delivery. This preserves your chargeback rights. If the mover insists on cash or money order only, walk away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a binding and non-binding moving estimate?+

A binding estimate guarantees the total cost based on the items and services listed. A non-binding estimate is an approximation, and the final cost can increase based on actual weight. The 110% rule limits the amount a mover can collect at delivery on a non-binding estimate to 110% of the original estimate. Any balance beyond that must be billed within 30 days.

What is the 110% rule for moving estimates?+

Under FMCSA regulations, if you have a non-binding estimate for an interstate move, the mover cannot collect more than 110% of the estimated cost at delivery. If the actual charges exceed the estimate, the mover must bill you for the remaining balance within 30 days, and you have 30 days to pay. This prevents movers from holding your belongings hostage for a much larger amount on delivery day.

Can a mover hold my belongings hostage for more money?+

On a binding estimate, the mover cannot demand more than the agreed price at delivery. On a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot demand more than 110% of the estimate at delivery. If a mover refuses to release your belongings despite you offering the legally required payment, call local law enforcement and file a complaint with the FMCSA immediately.

What is an anti-chargeback clause in a moving contract?+

Some movers include clauses that penalize you for disputing a credit card charge. These clauses may state that if you file a chargeback, you agree to pay the mover's legal fees, a penalty fee, or forfeit your right to a damage claim. While the enforceability of these clauses varies by state, their presence is a red flag. A legitimate mover should not need to contractually prevent you from exercising your consumer rights.

What is a non-disparagement clause in a moving contract?+

A non-disparagement clause prohibits you from leaving negative reviews or making negative public statements about the mover. Some clauses include financial penalties for violations. These clauses are designed to suppress honest feedback. They are a significant red flag, and the Consumer Review Fairness Act (2016) makes many such clauses in consumer contracts unenforceable under federal law.

Should I sign the Bill of Lading if I notice damage at delivery?+

Yes, but note every instance of damage on the Bill of Lading before signing. Write specific descriptions like 'dresser top scratched, 6-inch mark on right side' rather than just 'damaged.' Take timestamped photos. Your notes on the Bill of Lading are critical evidence for filing a claim. Never sign a delivery receipt that says 'received in good condition' if there is damage.

Can I negotiate the terms of a moving contract?+

Yes. Before signing, you can negotiate the estimate type (ask for binding not-to-exceed), the valuation coverage, the delivery window, payment terms, and the removal of problematic clauses like non-disparagement or anti-chargeback provisions. If the mover refuses to negotiate on basic consumer protections, consider hiring a different company.

Related Guides

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Step-by-step verification guide

Moving Deposits

How much is normal and when is it a scam

Moving Insurance

Released Value vs Full Value Protection

Moving Scams

How to spot and avoid them

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