7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Interstate Moving Company

Choosing an interstate moving company involves more than comparing prices. The mover will transport most of your household belongings across state lines, so you need to verify who will handle the shipment, how the final price will be calculated and what protection applies if something is lost or damaged.

Before signing an estimate or paying a deposit, ask the mover these seven questions:

1. Are you registered and authorized by the FMCSA?
2. Are you a carrier or a moving broker?
3. What type of estimate will I receive?
4. Which additional fees could apply?
5. What valuation and claims options do you offer?
6. What are the pickup and delivery windows?
7. How will you pack, inventory and track my shipment?

The answers will help you identify legitimate interstate movers, compare quotes accurately and avoid common moving scams.

Question	What to verify	Warning sign
Are you federally authorized?	Active USDOT number and household goods authority	Missing, inactive or mismatched registration
Are you a carrier or broker?	Who will physically transport the shipment	The company will not identify the carrier
What type of estimate is provided?	Binding or non-binding estimate with itemized services	Verbal quote or incomplete inventory
Which fees may be added?	Stairs, shuttles, long carries, packing and storage	Vague answers about additional charges
What protection is available?	Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection	Valuation options are not explained
What is the delivery window?	Dates or agreed delivery period in writing	Promises that do not appear in the contract
How is the shipment protected?	Packing methods, inventory and tracking process	No written inventory or damage documentation

1. Are You Registered and Authorized by the FMCSA?

A company transporting household goods between states must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number.

However, having a USDOT number does not automatically mean the company is authorized to transport household goods. You should also confirm its operating status, business type and federal authority.

Use the official FMCSA mover search tool to check:

• The company name and headquarters
• Its USDOT number
• Whether it is listed as a carrier or broker
• Its household goods operating authority
• Registration status
• Complaint information
• Available safety information

The name in the FMCSA database should match the legal company name shown on your estimate, order for service and bill of lading.

Ask the mover directly

• What is your USDOT number?
• Are you authorized to transport household goods across state lines?
• What legal company name will appear on my contract?
• Can I verify your operating authority through the FMCSA database?
• Will another company handle any part of my move?

Watch for these red flags

Be cautious when a mover:

• Refuses to provide a USDOT number
• Uses a different company name on the contract
• Has an inactive or revoked operating status
• Provides only a local business license
• Claims that federal registration is unnecessary for an interstate move
• Pressures you to book before you can verify its credentials

A professional mover should make its licensing information easy to find and explain which company is legally responsible for your shipment.

2. Are You a Carrier or a Moving Broker?

This is one of the most important questions to ask before hiring interstate movers.

A moving carrier owns or operates the trucks and employs or manages the crews that transport your belongings. A moving broker arranges the move but does not transport the shipment itself. The broker sells or assigns the job to a separate carrier.

Both carriers and household goods brokers must meet applicable FMCSA registration requirements, but their responsibilities are different.

Before booking, ask:

• Will your own crew and truck complete my move?
• Are you acting as a carrier or a broker?
• Will my shipment be transferred to another company?
• What is the name and USDOT number of the actual carrier?
• Who should I contact if the pickup, delivery or price changes?
• Which company will handle a damage or loss claim?

You can verify the company type using the FMCSA database and review the agency's explanation of movers versus brokers.

Why this distinction matters

When you hire a carrier, you generally communicate with the company that will physically transport your shipment. When you work with a broker, the company that gives you the initial quote may not be the company that arrives on moving day.

Using a broker is not automatically a problem. The risk appears when the customer is not told that the company is a broker, does not know which carrier will complete the move or receives a low estimate that changes after the shipment is assigned.

Do not rely on a company name, logo or website alone. Confirm the business type and operating authority before paying a deposit.

3. What Type of Moving Estimate Will I Receive?

Your estimate should explain how the moving price was calculated and which services are included. It should be based on an accurate inventory of the belongings you plan to move.

For an interstate relocation, you may receive a binding or non-binding estimate.

Binding estimate

A binding estimate establishes the price for the listed shipment and services. The mover may charge more when you request additional services, add items or when other properly documented circumstances change the scope of the move.

Before signing, confirm that the inventory is complete. Adding furniture, boxes or services after the estimate is prepared can change the final price.

Non-binding estimate

A non-binding estimate is an approximation rather than a guaranteed final price. The actual charge is generally based on the mover's tariff and the services performed.

At delivery, a mover generally cannot require payment of more than 110% of the original non-binding estimate to release the shipment. This does not mean that the final bill can increase by only 10%. Legitimate remaining charges may be billed later, and certain additional services can affect the amount due.

You can review the FMCSA explanation of binding and non-binding estimates.

What the written estimate should identify

A useful moving estimate should clearly show:

• The legal name of the mover
• USDOT and other applicable registration numbers
• Origin and destination
• Estimated shipment size or weight
• Inventory of household goods
• Packing and unpacking services
• Loading and unloading
• Transportation charges
• Storage services
• Specialty item handling
• Additional service charges
• Accepted payment methods
• Estimate type
• Pickup and delivery dates or windows

Ask the mover to explain every line you do not understand before signing.

Questions to ask about the quote

• Is this estimate binding or non-binding?
• Was it prepared by the carrier or by a broker?
• Is the price based on weight, volume, distance or a combination of factors?
• Does the inventory include every item I plan to move?
• Which services are included?
• Which services cost extra?
• What could cause the final price to change?
• Will I receive an updated written estimate if the scope changes?

Avoid making a decision based only on the lowest number. An incomplete inventory can make an estimate look attractive while excluding services that will be charged later.

4. Which Additional Fees and Payment Terms Could Apply?

Interstate moving costs can change when access conditions or requested services differ from those described in the original estimate.

Ask the mover to identify all possible additional charges before moving day.

Common extra charges may include:

• Packing materials
• Full or partial packing
• Unpacking services
• Stairs
• Elevators
• Long carry distances
• Shuttle service
• Bulky or heavy items
• Appliance preparation
• Custom crating
• Additional stops
• Storage
• Redelivery
• Waiting time
• Difficult parking or building access

For example, a large moving truck may not be able to reach a narrow street or apartment entrance. The mover may need to transfer the shipment to a smaller vehicle, resulting in a shuttle fee.

Confirm the payment terms

Your estimate, order for service and bill of lading should identify the acceptable forms of payment.

Ask:

• How much is the deposit?
• Is the deposit refundable?
• When is the remaining balance due?
• Which payment methods do you accept?
• Can the price change after loading?
• How are additional services approved?
• Will I receive written documentation before an extra service is performed?
• What amount may be required at delivery?

Be cautious of companies demanding a large cash payment before the move or refusing to document additional charges.

Never sign blank or incomplete documents. Keep copies of the estimate, inventory, order for service, bill of lading and all payment receipts.

5. What Valuation and Claims Options Do You Offer?

Interstate movers must offer customers two basic levels of liability protection:

• Full Value Protection
• Released Value Protection

These options describe the mover's contractual liability for your household goods. They are not the same as a separate insurance policy.

Full Value Protection

Under Full Value Protection, the mover is generally responsible for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods in the shipment.

Depending on the circumstances and contract terms, the mover may:

• Repair the item
• Replace it with a comparable item
• Provide a cash settlement based on repair cost or current replacement value

Ask whether the plan includes a deductible, how high-value items must be declared and whether any exclusions apply.

Released Value Protection

Released Value Protection is provided at no additional charge but offers minimal protection. The mover's liability is limited to $0.60 per pound per article.

For example, if a television weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the maximum compensation under Released Value Protection may be only $15:

25 pounds × $0.60 = $15

This amount may be far below the item's replacement value.

Review the FMCSA guide to liability and valuation protection before selecting an option.

Ask about high-value belongings

Tell the mover in advance about items such as:

• Jewelry
• Artwork
• Antiques
• Collectibles
• Designer furniture
• Musical instruments
• High-end electronics
• Items with unusual sentimental or financial value

Ask whether these belongings need to be listed separately and whether custom packing or crating is required.

How to document damage or loss

Before pickup:

1. Photograph valuable items from several angles.
2. Record serial numbers for electronics.
3. Keep receipts or appraisals when available.
4. Review the mover's inventory carefully.
5. Note existing scratches or damage before signing.

At delivery:

1. Compare the delivered items with the inventory.
2. Inspect boxes and furniture before the crew leaves.
3. Record visible damage on the delivery documents.
4. Take photographs of damaged items and packaging.
5. Keep copies of all contracts, receipts and correspondence.

A written claim for loss or damage generally must be filed within nine months of delivery. The mover has 30 days to acknowledge receipt and 120 days to decide whether it will offer a settlement.

FMCSA accepts complaints involving potential regulatory violations, but it does not determine the value of a private damage claim or force a mover to pay a settlement.

6. What Are the Pickup and Delivery Windows?

Interstate moves often involve a delivery window rather than a single guaranteed date. The timing can depend on distance, shipment size, route planning, weather, road conditions and whether multiple shipments are transported on the same truck.

Do not rely on a verbal promise. Make sure the pickup and delivery dates or periods appear in the written documents.

Ask the mover:

• What is the confirmed pickup date or pickup window?
• What is the estimated delivery window?
• Is a guaranteed delivery date available?
• Will my belongings remain on the same truck?
• Will the shipment be transferred at a warehouse?
• How often will I receive updates?
• Who should I contact for shipment status?
• What happens if pickup or delivery is delayed?
• Does the contract provide any remedy for a significant delay?

Understand the difference between an estimate and a guarantee

A sales representative may provide an expected transit time, but that does not automatically create a guaranteed delivery date.

If timing is essential because of a lease, job start date, school schedule or temporary accommodation, ask whether the company offers a guaranteed date or expedited service. Any guarantee and related conditions should appear in writing.

Plan for a reasonable gap between arrival at your new home and delivery of the shipment. Keep medication, documents, chargers, basic clothing and essential household items with you rather than loading them onto the moving truck.

7. How Will You Pack, Inventory and Track My Shipment?

Packing quality affects both the safety of your belongings and the efficiency of loading and delivery.

A professional interstate mover should explain:

• Which packing materials will be used
• Who is responsible for packing each item
• How furniture will be wrapped
• How fragile items will be protected
• Whether artwork or antiques require custom crating
• How boxes and furniture will be labeled
• How the shipment inventory will be prepared
• How you can receive transportation updates

Standard professional packing materials may include:

• Double-wall or corrugated moving boxes
• Packing paper
• Bubble wrap
• Foam protection
• Mattress covers
• Stretch wrap
• Furniture pads
• Corner protectors
• Wardrobe boxes
• Custom wooden crates

For complicated or high-value shipments, consider professional packing and unpacking services.

Review the inventory before the truck leaves

The mover should prepare an inventory showing the items loaded and their apparent condition.

Check that:

• All major items are listed
• Inventory numbers match the labels
• Existing damage is described accurately
• High-value items are documented
• The number of boxes is correct
• You receive a copy of the completed inventory

Do not sign an inventory that you have not reviewed.

Ask about storage and transfers

Some interstate shipments may be stored temporarily or transferred between vehicles.

Ask:

• Will my shipment be stored during transit?
• Where is the storage facility located?
• Is the facility climate-controlled?
• Who has access to the shipment?
• Are storage charges included in the estimate?
• Will the shipment be unloaded and reloaded?
• How are individual shipments separated and identified?

When the move-out and move-in dates do not align, review the company's moving and storage options before booking.

Documents You Should Receive Before an Interstate Move

A legitimate mover should provide clear written documentation. Depending on the move and services selected, important documents may include:

• Written estimate
• Order for service
• Bill of lading
• Household goods inventory
• Valuation selection
• Tariff information
• Pickup and delivery dates or windows
• Payment terms
• Claim instructions
• The FMCSA booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move
• FMCSA arbitration information

The bill of lading is the contract and receipt for your shipment. Read it carefully before signing and keep a copy with you throughout the move.

Do not pack moving contracts, identification, financial documents or irreplaceable records inside the shipment.

Interstate Moving Company Red Flags

Consider getting another quote when a mover:

• Refuses to provide its USDOT number
• Cannot be found in the FMCSA database
• Is registered but not authorized to transport household goods
• Will not explain whether it is a carrier or broker
• Provides only a verbal estimate
• Gives a quote without reviewing the inventory
• Requests a large cash deposit
• Uses a rental truck without explaining who the carrier is
• Asks you to sign blank or incomplete documents
• Does not provide required consumer information
• Changes the company name on different documents
• Avoids explaining valuation options
• Promises an exact delivery date but will not include it in the contract
• Adds services without written authorization
• Refuses to provide copies of signed documents

One warning sign does not always prove fraud, but several inconsistencies should be taken seriously.

Choose an Interstate Mover With Confidence

The best moving company is not necessarily the one offering the lowest initial quote. Look for a mover that provides verifiable federal credentials, a complete inventory, transparent pricing, written delivery terms and a clear process for protecting your belongings.

Star Van Lines provides long-distance and interstate moving services for residential relocations across the United States. Customers receive a written estimate based on the details of the move and can review the company's federal credentials before booking.

Star Van Lines operates under:

• USDOT #4176875
• MC #1607491

You can also read verified Star Van Lines customer reviews and use the online moving cost calculator to begin planning your relocation.

A calculator provides a preliminary estimate. The final written quote should reflect your complete inventory, locations, access conditions, moving date and selected services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I ask an interstate moving company before hiring it?

Ask whether the company is federally authorized, whether it is a carrier or broker, what type of estimate it provides, which additional fees may apply, what valuation options are available and how pickup, delivery and claims are handled.

How can I verify an interstate mover's license?

Search the company name or USDOT number in the FMCSA mover database. Confirm that the legal name, contact information, business type, operating status and authority to transport household goods match the information on your estimate.

Is a USDOT number enough to prove that a mover is legitimate?

No. A company may have a USDOT number without having active authority to transport interstate household goods. Check its current operating status and household goods authority in the FMCSA database.

Should I hire a moving carrier or a broker?

Either may be legitimate, but you should understand the difference. A carrier physically transports the shipment. A broker arranges transportation with another company. When working with a broker, confirm the identity and registration of the actual carrier before the move.

Can a non-binding moving estimate increase by more than 10%?

Yes. The 110% rule generally limits the amount a mover may require at delivery based on the original non-binding estimate. It does not necessarily limit the final total bill to a 10% increase. Valid remaining charges may be billed later.

What is the difference between Full Value and Released Value Protection?

Full Value Protection generally makes the mover responsible for repairing, replacing or providing a settlement for lost or damaged belongings according to the contract. Released Value Protection limits liability to $0.60 per pound per article.

How long do I have to file a moving damage claim?

For an interstate household goods move, a written loss or damage claim generally must be submitted within nine months of delivery. Document the damage, keep the packaging and follow the claim instructions provided by the mover.

Should an interstate moving estimate be in writing?

Yes. Do not rely on a verbal quote. The written estimate should identify the shipment, services, estimate type, charges, payment methods and relevant pickup and delivery information.

What documents should I keep during the move?

Keep your estimate, order for service, bill of lading, inventory, valuation selection, receipts, photographs and correspondence. Carry these documents with you rather than packing them in the moving truck.