How to File a Claim for Damaged or Missing Items After a Move

Most moves go fine. When they don't, you have 9 months under federal law to file a claim for damaged or missing items. This guide walks through the process step by step.

Released Value Protection ($0.60/lb, free, automatic) vs Full Value Protection (replacement cost, paid option). If you signed for released value, a 50lb TV is only covered for $30. Check your Bill of Lading for which you selected.

Before signing the delivery receipt, inspect every item. Note ANY damage on the receipt itself. Write "subject to inspection" if you can't check everything. Photograph damaged items with timestamps. Email photos to yourself for a dated record.

Send a written claim to the mover within 9 months of delivery (federal deadline). Include: your name, move dates, inventory number, description of damage, photos, repair/replacement cost estimates. Send via certified mail or email with read receipt.

Under FMCSA rules, the mover must acknowledge your claim within 30 days and resolve it within 120 days. If they don't respond, that's a federal violation you can report.

Options: file with FMCSA (fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move), file a BBB complaint, pursue small claims court (up to $5,000-$10,000 depending on state), or hire an attorney for larger losses. Document the mover's non-response as evidence.

Not noting damage on the delivery receipt, waiting too long to file, not having photos, accepting a lowball offer without negotiating, verbal agreements instead of written.

Released value: $0.60 per pound per item. Full value: actual repair cost or replacement value. If the mover packed the item, they're liable regardless. If you packed it, liability is limited unless the mover was negligent in handling.