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Interstate moving consumer guide

How to file an FMCSA moving complaint

Prepare company identifiers, shipment documents, dates, payments, and a concise timeline before opening the complaint form.

Reviewed by Setly Editorial TeamUpdated July 26, 2026Scope Interstate U.S. household moves
01

Confirm the complaint belongs with FMCSA

FMCSA’s complaint process covers interstate household-goods movers and brokers. If the move stayed within one state, a state regulator or consumer protection office may be the appropriate authority.

Keep pursuing any separate claim, arbitration, insurance, or payment-dispute deadline. Filing a regulatory complaint does not automatically recover money or replace those processes.

02

Gather the information

  • Mover or broker legal name, USDOT number, address, phone, and website
  • Pickup and delivery locations and dates
  • Estimate, order for service, bill of lading, inventory, and receipts
  • Amounts quoted, paid, and demanded
  • Messages, photographs, claim documents, and a concise event timeline
03

Submit and retain the record

Use the National Consumer Complaint Database, describe observable facts, and attach or retain supporting documents. Save the complaint confirmation and reference number.

Open the National Consumer Complaint Database
04

Official sources and scope

Setly summarizes consumer decision points and does not certify, approve, recommend, or guarantee a mover. Verify changing registration, authority, insurance, complaint, and safety information directly with the official source before paying and again before pickup.

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