What can I do if an interstate mover's final bill is higher than the estimate?
A delivery-day checklist for comparing the estimate, bill of lading, added-service records, and federal payment limits when an interstate mover demands more than expected.
First identify whether the interstate estimate is binding or non-binding and separate the listed shipment from services you requested later and documented impracticable operations. For the work shown on a binding estimate, the amount due at delivery is generally the binding amount. For a non-binding estimate, the mover generally cannot require more than 110% of the estimate at delivery for the estimated shipment and services. Certain added services and limited impracticable-operation charges may also be collected. Offer the lawful amount through an accepted payment method, document the demand, and use FMCSA's complaint resources or legal help if the shipment is withheld.
A high final bill does not answer how much the mover may collect at the door. The delivery amount depends on the estimate type, the inventory and services shown on the paperwork, later services you requested, and limited charges for impracticable operations. These federal rules cover interstate household-goods moves; state rules govern most moves that stay within one state.
Sort the paperwork before discussing the total
Documents to place side by side
- Written estimate
Find the words binding or non-binding, the amount, inventory, listed services, date, and signatures.
- Revised estimate
Look for any change signed before loading and whether the original estimate was reaffirmed or converted.
- Order for service and bill of lading
Compare the shipment, dates, delivery window, valuation selection, and payment method.
- Inventory and weight records
Match item counts and review certified weight tickets when charges depend on weight.
- Added-service authorization
Identify services requested after signing and who approved each one.
- Final freight bill
Ask for itemized transportation, accessorial, advance, storage, and impracticable-operation charges.
Calculate the delivery amount by estimate type
Federal interstate delivery limits
| Situation | What is generally due at delivery | What may be billed later |
|---|---|---|
| Binding estimate | 100% of the binding amount for listed items and services | Proper charges outside the listed scope, subject to the applicable rules |
| Non-binding estimate | Up to 110% of the estimate for the estimated shipment and services | The remaining tariff-based balance, deferred for at least 30 days |
| Services requested after signing | The documented cost may be collected at delivery | Any amount handled under the mover's lawful billing terms |
| Impracticable operations | No more than 15% of all other charges due at delivery | The remaining eligible amount, billed after delivery under the federal timing rule |
Respond to a disputed demand
Delivery-day response
- Ask for an itemized explanation
Have the mover connect every added amount to a service, inventory change, tariff provision, revised estimate, or later request.
- State the estimate type and amount offered
Keep the discussion factual. Identify the binding amount or 110% calculation and the payment method you are ready to use.
- Document the interaction
Save invoices and messages, record names and times, and photograph the truck and shipment condition where lawful and safe.
- Protect delivery evidence
If delivery proceeds, note missing or damaged items on the inventory and follow the claims process separately from the pricing dispute.
- Escalate through the correct channel
Use FMCSA's Protect Your Move complaint path for an interstate carrier and consider legal advice when goods are withheld or the amount is substantial.
SUMMARY
The bottom line
Do not argue from the estimate total alone. Identify the estimate type, isolate properly documented added work, calculate the delivery amount, offer payment in an accepted form, and keep a record suitable for a regulator, arbitrator, or attorney.
Common questions
Before you move on
Can an interstate mover hold my goods for more than a non-binding estimate?+
For the estimated shipment and services, the mover generally must release the shipment when you offer up to 110% of the non-binding estimate, plus eligible added-service and limited impracticable-operation charges.
Is 110% the most I can ever be charged?+
No. It is generally the delivery-payment limit for work covered by a non-binding estimate. A lawful remaining balance can be billed later based on actual weight, services, and the tariff.
What if I added items on moving day?+
Before loading, the mover should address the changed inventory through the permitted written estimate process. Services you request after the contract is executed may be collected separately at delivery.
Do these rules apply to an in-state move?+
No. These are federal interstate household-goods rules. Contact the state agency that regulates movers for a move that remains within one state.