USMPOUnited States Moving Protection(USMPO) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, created as a preventative resource to protect consumers against moving scams, independent from the DOT/FMCSA

How to File a Moving Complaint

This page explains how to submit a consumer complaint related to interstate household goods moves through the U.S. Moving Protection Organization.

Before You File

USMPO's complaint process is designed for consumers who have experienced issues with interstate household goods moving companies. Before submitting, please review whether your situation is appropriate for this process.

Appropriate For

  • Interstate household goods moves (across state lines)
  • Pricing disputes, overcharges, or bait-and-switch estimates
  • Damaged, lost, or stolen property
  • Hostage loads (carrier holding goods for additional payment)
  • Delivery delays or no-shows
  • Communication failures or misrepresentation

Not Intended For

  • Local or intrastate moves (within same state)
  • Self-service / DIY moves (rental trucks)
  • Freight, auto transport, or non-household goods
  • Disputes between businesses (B2B)
  • Issues older than 12 months
  • Matters currently in litigation

What to Prepare

Gather the following documents and information before starting your complaint. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case.

Contracts / Estimates

Original written or binding estimate, bill of lading, order for service

Photos / Videos

Damaged items, condition at pickup and delivery, truck/equipment photos

Communication Records

Emails, text messages, call logs with the moving company

Receipts / Invoices

Final charges, additional fees, payment receipts

Inventory Lists

Original inventory sheets, missing item documentation

Evidence Reference

Document TypeDescription
Contracts / EstimatesOriginal written or binding estimate, bill of lading, order for service
Photos / VideosDamaged items, condition at pickup and delivery, truck/equipment photos
Communication RecordsEmails, text messages, call logs with the moving company
Receipts / InvoicesFinal charges, additional fees, payment receipts
Inventory ListsOriginal inventory sheets, missing item documentation

What Happens After You File

1

Acknowledgment

USMPO acknowledges receipt of your complaint within 48 hours.

2

Review

Our team reviews the complaint details, supporting evidence, and carrier records.

3

Carrier Notification

The carrier is notified and given an opportunity to respond to the complaint.

4

Mediation

USMPO facilitates communication and works toward a fair resolution for both parties.

5

Publication

Findings and carrier responses are published on the carrier's public profile, subject to publication rules.

Publication Rules

USMPO publishes complaint information to promote industry transparency. The following rules apply:

  • Your personal contact information (phone, email, address) is never published.
  • Complaint details, issue category, and resolution status are published on the carrier's profile.
  • Carriers are given the opportunity to respond before publication.
  • Published complaints include badges indicating whether a company response, USMPO update, or both have been received.
  • Complaints may be updated as new information becomes available.
Disclosure: USMPO is not a regulatory agency. We cannot impose fines or legal penalties. Our role is to mediate, publish transparent data, and refer cases to federal and state authorities when appropriate.

Company Responses & Updates

After a complaint is published, carriers may submit a formal response. USMPO reviews all responses and publishes them alongside the original complaint. This creates a balanced, transparent record.

Company ResponseUSMPO UpdateCompany + USMPO

View recent responses and updates on the Recent Complaint Updates & Responses page.

Submit Your Complaint

Form USMPO-1001, Rev. 02/2026

Complainant Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file a complaint?
Any consumer who has used or contracted an interstate household goods moving company may file a complaint. You do not need to be a USMPO member.
Is there a cost to file?
No. Filing a complaint with USMPO is completely free.
How long does the process take?
USMPO acknowledges receipt within 48 hours. The full review and resolution process typically takes 2-4 weeks depending on carrier responsiveness and complaint complexity.
Will my complaint be public?
Published complaints follow our publication rules. Your personal contact information is never shared publicly. Complaint details are published on the carrier's profile to help future consumers.
Can I file anonymously?
You must provide your identity for USMPO to investigate your complaint. However, your personal information is kept confidential and is not shared with the public.
What if the company doesn't respond?
If a carrier does not respond within the designated timeframe, this is noted on their public profile. Unresponsive carriers may be flagged and the complaint may be escalated to the FMCSA.
Does USMPO have legal authority?
USMPO is not a regulatory agency and cannot impose fines or legal penalties. We mediate disputes, publish transparent data, and refer cases to federal regulators when appropriate.