Updated October 11, 2026
On a move between states, the bill of lading is the most important paper you sign. The federal rules define it as both the receipt and the contract for moving your household goods. It names the mover, sets the dates, and says what you will pay and how. Keep your copy until everything is delivered, every charge is paid and any claim is settled.
When you get it: the 3-day rule
For interstate moves, the mover must give you the bill of lading, and you sign and date it, at least 3 days before your things are scheduled to be loaded. For 3 days after you sign, you can cancel it without any penalty. If you add items or services on moving day and a new estimate is written, the changes to the bill of lading do not start a new 3-day wait (49 CFR 375.505).
The bill of lading is signed again at both ends: before loading and at delivery. Each time, the mover gives you a dated copy.
What it must list
The federal rule lists 17 items. In plain words, look for:
- The mover’s legal or trade name as registered with FMCSA, and its physical address.
- The name, phone number, address and U.S. DOT number of any other carrier that will handle your shipment.
- Your name, address and phone number.
- The forms of payment accepted at delivery. They must match the estimate.
- The agreed pickup and delivery dates, or the agreed date ranges.
- The actual pickup date, and the number of the truck your things are loaded on.
- The payment terms, including any minimum charges.
- On a shipment paid at delivery, the most the mover will demand before handing over your things, and a person to notify about the charges.
- Your liability choice: Full Value Protection, or a written waiver for Released Value.
- Any insurance you bought through the mover from an outside insurer, and what it cost.
- Every extra service ordered, such as packing, crating or a shuttle truck.
- The estimate and the inventory, attached.
- Any shipment number the mover assigns, and a statement that the bill of lading includes all services on the estimate.
Before you sign: a short checklist
- Read it. The federal booklet says it is your responsibility to read and understand the bill of lading, and not to sign until you agree it is correct.
- Check that the pickup and delivery dates are filled in and that you agree with them.
- Compare it with your written estimate. Our guide how to read a written moving estimate explains binding, non-binding and the 110 percent rule.
- Make sure the services match what you asked for, and the liability choice is the one you made.
- Never sign a blank document. An incomplete one is allowed only for facts that cannot be known before loading, such as the actual weight on a non-binding estimate.
The inventory goes with it
The mover makes an inventory of your things, usually while loading, and writes down any damage or unusual wear it sees. You and the mover sign each page. Before you sign, check that every item is listed and that the condition notes are fair. You have the right to write down that you disagree. You get a copy of each page; staple it to your bill of lading.
On delivery day
Check the items coming off the truck against the inventory. If something is missing or damaged, write it on the inventory and ask the crew to note it on the mover’s copy too, before you sign. Do not sign a delivery receipt that says it releases the mover from liability. The federal booklet says to strike out that kind of wording before signing (FMCSA booklet). If you find damage later, Damaged or Missing Items After a Move: How a Claim Works walks through the written claim and its deadlines.
Moves that stay inside one state
The rules above are the federal rules for moves between states. A move that stays inside New York State is licensed by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), and a move that stays inside New Jersey by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Public Movers and Warehousemen). Their rules are not the same, so ask your mover which rules cover your move and get the answer in writing with your estimate.
Common questions
What is a bill of lading for a move?
It is both the receipt and the contract for moving your household goods. It names the mover, the dates, the services, the payment terms and your liability choice.
When should I get the bill of lading?
For interstate moves, at least 3 days before loading. You sign and date it, and you can cancel it without penalty for 3 days after signing.
Can a mover ask me to sign a blank bill of lading?
No. A mover may not require you to sign a blank document. Only facts that cannot be known before loading, such as the actual weight on a non-binding estimate, may be left open.
Should I keep my copy after the move?
Yes. Keep the bill of lading and the inventory until everything is delivered, all charges are paid and any claim is settled.
How do I get a free written estimate from you?
Call (929) 339-6014 or use the quote form on our home page.
Free written estimate: call (929) 339-6014 or use the quote form on our home page. Family business since 1999 · U.S. DOT No. 967970 (MC-432549) · NYSDOT 34875 · NJPM 000930 · Company facts
We checked the official links on this page on October 11, 2026. Rules change, so confirm on the linked page before you rely on them.
More moving guides
- How to Read a Written Moving Estimate
- Damaged or Missing Items After a Move: How a Claim Works
- How to Move Long Distance