How to File
Claims Against a Moving Company for Damages
If your household goods are damaged or
lost during a move, you have the right to
file a claim against your moving company
for the losses.
- Check for damaged or missing items
during delivery of your household goods.
- Note damaged or lost items on the mover's
inventory sheet, giving detailed descriptions
of the loss in writing; save packing materials
in case of questions.
- Be aware of your mover's liability
limits on damaged or lost goods, based
on the amount of your insurance protection
for the move.
- Call your moving company immediately
and ask for any forms and procedures to
follow for filing a claim. File a loss
and damage claim against your moving company
as soon as possible even though you have
up to nine months after your goods are
delivered.
- Make sure the mover acknowledges receipt
of your claim within 30 days and denies
or settles your claim within 120 days.
- Accept or reject the mover's claim denial
or settlement offer.
- Contact the American Moving and Storage
Association regarding arbitration of disputes,
if you are not satisfied with the mover's
claim settlement.
- Some instances may require filing in
small claims court.
Strongly Recommended
Although the mover assumes minimal
liability on your household goods (60 cents
per pound), we strongly recommend you consider
purchasing additional liability insurance
through your moving company or an insurance
company. |