How to File a Moving Damage Claim
Step-by-step process for filing a claim, required documentation, federal timelines, typical payouts by item type, and what to do when your claim is denied.
Updated 2026-11-09
Step-by-Step Claim Process
For interstate moves regulated by the FMCSA. Local (intrastate) moves follow state-specific rules but the general process is similar.
| Step | Action | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inspect at delivery | Day of delivery |
| 2 | Photograph all damage | Within 24 hours |
| 3 | File written claim | Within 9 months (interstate) |
| 4 | Mover acknowledges claim | Within 30 days of your filing |
| 5 | Mover resolves claim | Within 120 days of your filing |
| 6 | Accept, negotiate, or escalate | After mover's response |
Required Documentation Checklist
Typical Payouts by Item Type
What you can expect to receive under each coverage type. The gap between Released Value and Full Value Protection is significant.
| Item | Avg Claim Value | Full Value Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Sofa / couch | $1,500 - $3,000 | $800 - $2,500 (repair or replace) |
| Flat-screen TV | $800 - $2,000 | $600 - $1,800 |
| Dining table | $1,000 - $4,000 | $500 - $3,000 (repair preferred) |
| Washer or dryer | $600 - $1,200 | $400 - $1,000 |
| Artwork / framed pieces | $200 - $5,000+ | Appraised value if documented |
| Mattress | $500 - $2,000 | $400 - $1,500 |
Full Value Protection vs Released Value
| Feature | Released Value | Full Value Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0 (included by default) | 1 - 2% of declared value |
| Payout formula | $0.60 per pound per item | Repair, replace, or current market value |
| 50-lb TV worth $1,200 | $30 payout | Up to $1,200 payout |
| 100-lb dresser worth $2,000 | $60 payout | Up to $2,000 (repair first) |
| Deductible | None | $0 - $500 depending on plan |
| Recommended for | Items under $5/lb in value | Furniture, electronics, valuables |
What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied
Request arbitration
Interstate movers must offer an arbitration program. Arbitration is typically binding and costs $0 to $400. An independent arbitrator reviews your claim and the mover's response. Most disputes are resolved within 60 days. This is usually your best option for claims under $10,000.
File an FMCSA complaint
Go to fmcsa.dot.gov and file a consumer complaint. The FMCSA does not resolve individual disputes, but complaints create a record against the mover's operating authority. Multiple complaints trigger investigations. This matters for accountability even if it does not directly get you paid.
Credit card chargeback
If you paid any portion by credit card, you can dispute the charge under the Fair Credit Billing Act. You have 60 days from the statement date. The card issuer investigates and may reverse the charge. This works best when you have clear documentation of the damage and the mover's failure to resolve.
Small claims court
File in your local small claims court. Limits vary by state: $5,000 in some states, up to $25,000 in others. Filing fees are $30 to $100. You do not need a lawyer. Bring your photos, claim letter, the mover's response, and any correspondence. Many movers settle before the hearing date.
Report the mover
File reports with the BBB, your state's attorney general, and review sites. Legitimate businesses respond to public complaints more seriously than private ones. You can also report the mover on Trunk to warn other consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a damage claim with my moving company?+
What is the difference between Full Value Protection and Released Value?+
How long does the mover have to respond to my claim?+
What if the mover denies my claim?+
Should I sign the delivery receipt if items are damaged?+
Can I file a claim for items that were lost, not just damaged?+
How much do movers typically pay out on damage claims?+
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