No one likes to imagine something going wrong during a move — but even with the most reliable movers, accidents can happen. Furniture can get scratched, boxes can go missing, or an appliance may arrive damaged. That’s why understanding the claims and arbitration process is essential. It ensures that if something does happen, you know exactly how to act fast, protect your rights, and get fair compensation.
This guide explains how moving claims work, what timelines to expect, and how to navigate arbitration like a pro.
Why Understanding Claims and Arbitration Matters
Many people panic after discovering damage post-move because they don’t know what to do. But U.S. federal regulations (through the FMCSA) give you clear rights when dealing with interstate movers.
- 🧾 You have the right to file a claim
- 📅 Movers must respond within a regulated timeline
- ⚖️ You may request arbitration if you’re unsatisfied with the outcome
- 💰 You can receive compensation based on your valuation coverage
Knowing these steps ahead of time saves you stress when it matters most.
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Step 1: Inspect Everything as Soon as It Arrives
One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting too long to inspect their belongings after delivery. Do a careful walkthrough with the crew lead:
- 📦 Open boxes and check for visible damage
- 🪑 Inspect furniture corners, legs, and surfaces
- 📸 Take photos of any damage immediately
- 📝 Note issues on the Bill of Lading or inventory list
Early documentation gives your claim a strong foundation.
Step 2: Know Your Filing Deadline
For interstate moves in the U.S., federal law gives you up to 9 months from the delivery date to file a claim with your mover. However, the sooner you file, the better.
- ⏳ File as soon as possible — ideally within 14 days
- 📝 Include photos, inventory references, and the Bill of Lading
- 📬 Send your claim through the mover’s official claims process
- 📄 Keep copies of everything
Most moving companies, including United Local Movers, offer a simple online claims submission process.
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Step 3: What to Include in Your Claim
A complete, well-documented claim gets resolved faster. Your claim should include:
- 📦 A list of damaged or missing items
- 🧾 Inventory numbers or descriptions
- 📸 Clear photos of damage
- 💵 Receipts or estimated value (if available)
- 📋 Description of what happened
Make sure your claim is specific. A vague “my TV broke” won’t be processed as quickly as a detailed report.
Step 4: How Movers Must Respond
Once your claim is filed, the mover is legally obligated to respond within certain timeframes. According to federal guidelines:
- 📥 Acknowledge receipt of the claim within 30 days
- 📅 Resolve or deny the claim within 120 days
- 🔁 If more time is needed, they must provide updates every 60 days
This timeline protects you from being ignored or delayed indefinitely.
Step 5: Released Value vs. Full Value Protection
Your compensation depends on the coverage you chose:
- 💲 Released Value Protection — Standard, no-cost coverage at $0.60 per pound per item
- 💰 Full Value Protection — Covers repair, replacement, or cash value of damaged items
For example, a 50-pound table damaged under Released Value would yield $30 in compensation. Under Full Value, you could receive the cost to replace or repair it.
Step 6: Arbitration vs. Litigation
If your claim isn’t resolved to your satisfaction, you have the right to request arbitration. Arbitration is:
- ⚖️ Less expensive and faster than court
- 🤝 Required for interstate movers registered with FMCSA
- 🧾 Legally binding in most cases
- 📅 Typically resolved within 60–120 days
Your moving company must provide details about its arbitration program when you request it.
Step 7: When to Escalate
If your mover is unresponsive or refuses to honor the claim process, you can escalate:
- 📞 File a complaint with the FMCSA
- 🏛️ Contact your state Attorney General’s office
- 🧾 Seek arbitration as outlined in your contract
- ⚠️ Document all communications
Professional movers like United Local Movers resolve most claims without escalation, but you should always know your options.
Step 8: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Delays or denials often happen because of avoidable errors. Don’t:
- 🚫 Wait too long to file your claim
- 🚫 Forget to include photos or inventory numbers
- 🚫 Ignore mover communications
- 🚫 Throw away damaged items before inspection
Every detail matters when it comes to protecting your claim.
Step 9: The Role of Documentation
Good documentation is your best defense. Keep:
- 📝 Copies of your claim and mover’s acknowledgment
- 📸 Photos before and after the move
- 📋 Inventory sheets and the Bill of Lading
- 📧 Email chains or texts with the moving company
The better your paper trail, the faster and fairer the resolution.
Step 10: How Arbitration Works Step by Step
Here’s a quick look at a typical arbitration timeline:
- 📝 You file for arbitration with supporting documentation
- 📬 The mover is notified and responds
- 📅 Arbitrator reviews both sides (30–60 days)
- ⚖️ Decision is issued (within 60–120 days)
- 💰 Compensation is provided if awarded
Unlike litigation, arbitration doesn’t require a lawyer in most cases and is designed to be more consumer-friendly.
Step 11: Preventing Future Claims
While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can reduce your risk of filing a claim by:
- 🧳 Packing fragile items securely or letting movers do it
- 📸 Taking photos of high-value belongings pre-move
- 🧾 Reviewing your valuation coverage carefully
- 🚛 Choosing a licensed, insured mover
Prevention is always cheaper and less stressful than a claims process.
Step 12: Knowledge Is Power When Things Go Wrong
Filing a claim or entering arbitration may not be fun, but knowing exactly how the process works can turn a stressful situation into a fair and organized resolution. By filing promptly, documenting everything, and understanding your rights, you give yourself the best chance of being compensated properly.
With United Local Movers, your relocation becomes safer, faster, and stress-free — even if unexpected issues arise.
