Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move - Worry Free Moving

Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Important Information for Interstate Household Goods Moves

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Required Disclosure | Worry Free Moving LLC | MC# 1383687

This document explains your rights and responsibilities when moving household goods across state lines. Federal regulations require your mover to provide you with this information before your move. Please read it carefully and keep it for your records.

Your Rights as a Consumer

As a consumer of interstate moving services, you have the right to:

  • Receive a written estimate before your move that clearly describes all charges
  • Choose between binding and non-binding estimates and understand the difference
  • Receive the mover's tariff containing rates, rules, and charges upon request
  • Know the mover's complaint and claims procedures
  • Choose your level of liability coverage for loss or damage
  • File claims for loss or damage within 9 months of delivery
  • Receive prompt claim settlement - movers must acknowledge claims within 30 days and resolve within 120 days
  • Access the arbitration program for disputes that cannot be resolved
  • Not be held hostage - your goods must be delivered upon payment of 100% of a binding estimate or 110% of a non-binding estimate
Your Responsibilities as a Shipper

To ensure a smooth move, you are responsible for:

  • Providing accurate information about the items to be moved
  • Being present or having an authorized representative present at pickup and delivery
  • Preparing items for transport - emptying drawers, disconnecting appliances, etc.
  • Transporting valuables yourself - jewelry, cash, important documents, medications
  • Reading all documents before signing
  • Noting damages on the delivery receipt before signing
  • Filing claims promptly - within 9 months of delivery for interstate moves
  • Paying as agreed - 100% of binding or up to 110% of non-binding estimate at delivery
Understanding Your Estimate

Binding Estimate

  • Guaranteed price for services listed
  • You pay the quoted amount
  • Additional services cost extra
  • Must be in writing

Non-Binding Estimate

  • Approximate cost based on estimated weight/time
  • Final cost may be higher or lower
  • At delivery, pay up to 110% of estimate
  • Balance due within 30 days

Important About Payment at Delivery

For non-binding estimates, you are only required to pay up to 110% of the estimated charges at delivery. The mover must deliver your goods and has 30 days to bill you for any remaining charges.

Valuation Coverage (Liability Protection)

This is NOT insurance. Valuation is the mover's maximum liability for loss or damage to your belongings.

Released Value (Basic - FREE)

  • $0.60 per pound per article
  • No additional cost
  • Example: 100 lb item = $60 max
  • Minimal protection

Full Value Protection

  • Up to $6.00 per pound per article
  • Additional premium required
  • Repair, replace, or reimburse
  • Deductible options available

Items with Limited or No Coverage

  • Items packed by you: Limited coverage unless outer container shows damage
  • Antiques: Covered at released value only ($0.60/lb)
  • Items of extraordinary value: Must be declared in writing
  • Particle board furniture: Generally excluded due to fragility
Filing a Claim for Loss or Damage
1

Note Damage at Delivery

Before signing, inspect items and note any damage on the delivery receipt. This is crucial for claims.

2

File Written Claim Within 9 Months

Submit a written claim to the mover within 9 months of delivery for interstate moves.

3

Mover Acknowledges Within 30 Days

The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim in writing within 30 days.

4

Resolution Within 120 Days

The mover must pay, deny, or make a settlement offer within 120 days of receiving your claim.

5

Arbitration if Needed

If you cannot resolve the claim, you have the right to request arbitration.

Items We Cannot Transport

For safety and legal reasons, movers cannot transport:

  • Hazardous materials (gasoline, propane, chemicals, paints, aerosols)
  • Explosives, ammunition, firearms (unless properly secured and declared)
  • Perishable food items
  • Plants (for long distance moves)
  • Pets and live animals
  • Items of extraordinary value not declared in writing
Dispute Resolution & Arbitration

Worry Free Moving participates in the Moving Pros Network Dispute Settlement Program, an arbitration program to help resolve disputed claims on interstate household goods shipments.

When to Use Arbitration

  • For claims involving loss or damage to household goods
  • For disputed additional charges billed after delivery
  • Claims of $10,000 or less must go to arbitration if requested by shipper
  • Claims over $10,000 require both parties to agree

Federal Resources

For more information about your rights, contact:

Questions About Your Move?

Our team is here to help explain your rights and answer any questions.

Phone: 330.435.8686

Email: service@worryfreemovers.com

Worry Free Moving LLC | MC# 1383687 | USDOT# 3548305

1421 Turnberry Dr, Youngstown, OH 44512

This document is provided in accordance with FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 375)

Your Rights and Responsibilities - Worry Free Moving LLC