Template: Dispute Your Moving Bill Within 180 Days (Copy and Send)

Under 49 USC 13710(a)(3)(B), the statute of repose for notice of billing disputes to carriers is 180 days from the date of delivery. This is shorter than the 9-month deadline for property damage claims. FMCSA does not disclose this deadline on its Protect Your Move website or in any consumer-facing publication.

If your mover overcharged you, you must send a written dispute within 180 days. This template creates the formal record you need. Send it by certified mail with return receipt AND by email. Keep copies of everything.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] [Date]

Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested AND Via Email to [Carrier/Broker Email]

To: [Carrier or Broker Name] [Carrier/Broker Address] USDOT: [DOT Number] MC: [MC Number]

Re: Notice of Billing Dispute Pursuant to 49 USC 13710(a)(3)(B) Move Date: [Date of Move] Delivery Date: [Date of Delivery] Bill of Lading Number: [BOL Number if known]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally dispute the charges for my household goods move delivered on [delivery date]. This notice is provided within the 180-day period required by 49 USC 13710(a)(3)(B).

The original binding estimate for this move was $[original estimate amount]. The amount charged at delivery was $[amount charged]. The difference of $[overcharge amount] was not authorized by the binding estimate, was not agreed to in a signed revised written estimate prior to loading, and was demanded under duress while my household goods were on the truck [or: at the point of delivery].

I am disputing the following specific charges: - [List each disputed charge and why it was unauthorized]

I request a refund of $[amount requested] representing the difference between the binding estimate and the amount collected.

Please respond to this dispute within 30 days. If I do not receive a satisfactory resolution, I will pursue all available remedies including but not limited to: FMCSA complaint, state Attorney General complaint, surety bond claim (BMC-84), credit card chargeback, small claims court, and/or administrative complaint under 49 USC 14704.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

cc: FMCSA (nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov) [State Attorney General Consumer Protection Division]

This letter does three things:

1. It preserves your legal right to challenge the charges. After 180 days, the statute of repose may bar your claim. By sending this letter within the window, you create a dated record that you disputed the charges on time.

2. It puts the carrier/broker on notice. Many carriers ignore informal complaints. A formal letter citing the specific statute, sent by certified mail, signals that you know your rights and intend to pursue them.

3. It creates evidence for every subsequent action. The letter, the certified mail receipt, and the carrier's response (or non-response) become exhibits in any FMCSA complaint, AG complaint, bond claim, or court action.

Send this letter as early as possible. Do not wait until day 179.

Send to BOTH the carrier and the broker if your move involved a broker. The broker arranged the move and may share liability for unauthorized charges.

If you paid by credit card, also file a chargeback with your card issuer within 60 days of the charge. The billing dispute letter and the chargeback are separate remedies that can be pursued simultaneously.

Keep the certified mail receipt. It proves the date of mailing and that the carrier received the dispute. This is your evidence that you met the 180-day deadline.