Federal rules (49 CFR 375.505) require an interstate household goods mover to issue a bill of lading for every shipment it transports. It is one of the three documents that matter most on a move, with the estimate and the inventory.
What the bill of lading does
It does two jobs at once. First, it is a receipt: it shows the mover has taken your goods. Second, it is the contract: it records the terms under which the mover carries them, including the agreed pickup and delivery dates or periods, the valuation you chose and the charges. If there is ever a disagreement, the bill of lading is the paper both sides go back to.
What it shows
Among other things, the bill of lading names the mover and shows its USDOT number, lists the origin and destination, references the estimate and the order for service, records the valuation level you selected, and describes how the charges are calculated. On a move with O'Brien's, the USDOT number on it is 30611.
When you get it
The mover gives you the bill of lading at loading, before your goods leave. Read it before you sign: check the addresses, the dates, the valuation choice and the services. If something on it differs from your estimate, ask about it then, while the crew and the estimator can still fix it.
How it affects your move
Keep your copy in the box or folder that travels with you, not on the truck. You will need it at delivery, when you check the inventory, and if you ever file a loss or damage claim, which you have 9 months from delivery to do on an interstate move.
Related documents
- The written estimate (binding or non-binding)
- The order for service
- The household goods inventory, signed at pickup and delivery
- The FMCSA booklets "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" and "Ready to Move?"
A quick checklist at signing
Taking two minutes at signing saves a long conversation later. If a line looks wrong, ask the crew lead before the truck leaves.
- The names and addresses at origin and destination are right
- The pickup and delivery dates or periods match what you agreed
- The valuation level is the one you chose, in writing
- The services listed match the estimate
- You keep a copy, and it travels with you