Oregon movers are required to give every customer the Moving Household Goods in Oregon General Information Bulletin which provides the following advice for household moving.
- Be flexible.
- Choose carefully. If your move is from point to point within Oregon, only use a mover certified by ODOT.
- Ask the mover to provide its certificate number.
- Get a written, signed estimate and keep it.
- Be ready when the mover arrives.
- Accompany the mover to make up an inventory of your items to be moved.
- Understand and agree with the bill of lading before you sign it.
- Before scheduling your move, require the mover to explain limits of liability and your options for loss and damage protection.
- Be at the destination at the time agreed upon for delivery.
- Check the condition of your property before you sign a delivery receipt.
Make an Inventory List
Movers are not required to provide an inventory list of goods moved in local hourly moves. You may want to prepare your own inventory and count the items and boxes as they are loaded and unloaded. Discuss this with the mover in advance because a successful loss or damage claim settlement may depend on it.
Protect Your Household Goods
- See the Household Goods Bulletin above for insurance options and value information for your move.
- See ready-to-assemble furniture on this page for additional valuation information.
- Other valuation protection options may be offered by the mover, if approved by the Oregon Department of Transportation.
- Be sure the bill of lading indicates the option you have chosen before you sign it.
- You must choose an option. If your mover fails to have you select an option, Replacement Cost Protection will be selected at your expense.
- Caution: If the actual value of your goods is higher than the amount you declare on the bill of lading, you may NOT be fully covered. If you are unsure of the value of your goods, check your homeowner´s policy or call your insurance agent.
Beware of Unlicensed Movers
If you choose an unlicensed mover, intentionally or unintentionally, there may be little or no protection for loss or damage to your property. ODOT occasionally receives complaints from people who hired unlicensed movers, including complaints that a mover is virtually holding hostage a person;s household goods until they pay more money.
Problems with interstate moves?
Household goods complaints can be reported to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Call a toll free hotline 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238).
- Staff are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Eastern Time.
- File a complaint with FMCSA if you experience trouble with a mover.
Problems with an Intrastate move?
Household goods complaints can be reported to the Motor Carrier Transportation Division.
- By phone, call 503-378-3715.
- File a complaint with Motor Carrier Transportation Division through email.
- By fax at 503-378-8815. Complete the Household Goods Complaint form, print and fax. Staff are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.