Your Rights & Responsibilities When You Move

Your Rights as a Shipper

• Written Estimate: You have the right to receive a written estimate before your move. The estimate must clearly state whether it is binding or non-binding.
• No Hostage Loads: A carrier cannot hold your belongings hostage for more than the amount on a binding estimate or 110% of a non-binding estimate at delivery.
• Valuation Options: Carriers must offer you two valuation (liability) options — Released Value Protection (included at no extra charge at $0.60/lb per item) and Full Value Protection.
• Pickup & Delivery Windows: The carrier must agree to specific pickup and delivery dates or a spread of dates in writing.
• Bill of Lading: You are entitled to a copy of the Bill of Lading — the contract between you and the carrier — before loading begins.
• Dispute Resolution: Carriers must have an arbitration program to resolve disputes. You may also file complaints with the FMCSA.
• No Discrimination: Carriers and brokers may not refuse service or provide different terms based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or disability.

Your Responsibilities as a Shipper

• Accurate Inventory: Provide an honest and thorough list of items to be moved so the carrier can prepare an accurate estimate.
• Be Present: Be available at both the origin and destination during the pickup and delivery windows.
• Review Documents: Read the Bill of Lading, inventory list, and estimate carefully before signing. Note any pre-existing damage on the inventory sheet.
• Payment: Have an acceptable form of payment ready at delivery. Carriers are not required to accept credit cards unless stated in writing.
• Access: Ensure the carrier can safely access your home with a full-size moving truck. Inform them of stairs, elevators, narrow streets, or long carries in advance.
• Prohibited Items: Do not include hazardous materials (propane, gasoline, paint, firearms ammunition) in your shipment.
• File Claims Promptly: If items are damaged or lost, file a written claim with the carrier within 9 months of delivery.

Understanding the Role of a Moving Broker

Triple Crown Moving Systems is a licensed interstate moving broker (US DOT# 4411647, MC# 1733135). As a broker, we do not transport your household goods ourselves. Instead, we coordinate and arrange for the transportation of your belongings by an FMCSA-authorized motor carrier from our vetted network.

The carrier’s charges are determined by its published tariff, which you have the right to inspect upon reasonable request. All estimated and final charges will be based on that tariff.

Filing a Complaint

If you believe a carrier or broker has violated federal regulations, you can file a complaint with the FMCSA:

• Online: FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database
• By phone: 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238)