How to File a Moving Damage Claim (California and Interstate)
You have nine months to file, but the claim is won or lost in the first hour after delivery. Here's how to protect it.
By Fast Easy Moving Editors · Updated
On delivery day
- Note visible damage and missing items on the delivery paperwork before you sign.
- Photograph damaged items and boxes before unpacking further.
- Keep packing materials from damaged items until the claim is settled.
California moves
File your claim in writing within nine months of delivery. The mover must acknowledge it within 30 days and pay, deny or make an offer within 60 days. If it needs longer, it must send you status letters every 30 days, copied to BHGS. If the claim is denied, you have two years and one day from the written denial to sue.
If a mover picks up or delivers late, Max 4 can entitle you to $100 per day in some cases.
Interstate moves
File within nine months of delivery. The mover must acknowledge within 30 days and resolve the claim within 120 days, with written extensions possible. Interstate movers must offer arbitration. For claims of $10,000 or less, the mover must arbitrate if you request it, and the decision is binding. You can still choose court instead.
Where to complain
For California moves, file a complaint with BHGS online or by phone at (916) 999-2041, option 5. For interstate moves, use FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database or call 1-888-368-7238. FMCSA tracks complaints and takes enforcement action, but it can't resolve your individual claim, so file the claim with the mover regardless.
Keep reading
In San Diego County? See our city guides for local permits and utilities.
Sources
Last checked October 2026.