What To Do If Something Gets Broken — How to File a Moving Claim
Even with careful movers and good packing, damage can happen. A heavy dresser clips a doorframe. A box marked "fragile" gets stacked under something heavy. When it does, knowing exactly what steps to take — and how quickly to take them — makes the difference between a resolved claim and a frustrating dead end.
Step One: Document Everything Before the Truck Leaves
The single most important thing you can do is document damage before the moving crew leaves your destination. Walk through every room and inspect items as they are placed. If you notice damage — a cracked screen, a broken leg, a dented appliance — photograph it immediately with your phone. Note the item, the nature of the damage, and ideally the time.
On your Bill of Lading or delivery receipt, note the damage in writing before you sign. Write something specific, like "dining table leg cracked upon delivery" rather than just "damage noted." Your signature without a notation can be used to argue that items were received in good condition.
Step Two: Report the Damage to the Moving Company Promptly
Contact the moving company in writing (email creates a timestamp) as soon as possible. · For interstate moves, federal law gives you nine months to file a written claim. · For intrastate Georgia moves, check your contract — timelines vary but earlier is always better. · Include your photos, a description of each damaged item, and an estimated value. · Keep copies of all correspondence in a dedicated folder.
Step Three: Understand How the Claims Process Works
Once you file, the moving company has 30 days to acknowledge your claim and 120 days to resolve it (under federal rules for interstate moves). They may send an inspector to assess the damage, offer a repair, offer a replacement, or offer a cash settlement. If you disagree with their offer, you can request arbitration — most licensed movers are required to participate in a neutral arbitration program.
If you selected full-value protection, the settlement should reflect current market or replacement value. If you signed up for released value only, your payout is calculated at $0.60 per pound per item — which is why understanding your coverage before the move matters so much. Bears Moving Co. walks clients through their options at booking so there are no surprises on either end.
Call us: (404) 514-4814 · Mon–Sat, 8am–6pm · Licensed GA HHG #9320 · BBB A+
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file a damage claim after a move?
For interstate moves, federal law gives you nine months from the delivery date to file a written claim. For moves within Georgia, the window depends on your contract, but most carriers set it at 60 to 90 days. Either way, file as soon as you discover the damage — delays can complicate your claim and give the carrier grounds to deny it.
What if I didn't notice the damage until after the movers left?
You can still file a claim for damage discovered after delivery. Document the damage immediately with photos and contact the moving company in writing right away. Note that some carriers make it harder to claim concealed damage (damage found after unpacking) if it was not noted on the delivery receipt, so it's worth inspecting carefully at the time of delivery even if you're tired.
Can the moving company deny my claim?
Yes, a moving company can deny a claim if they believe the damage resulted from improper packing by the owner, inherent defect in the item, or an act of nature. They must respond in writing with the reason for denial. If you disagree, you can escalate through the company's arbitration program or, in Georgia, file a complaint with the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
Do I need a police report for damaged items?
Not for damage claims — police reports are more relevant for theft. However, if items were stolen from the truck, you should file a police report and provide a copy to the moving company as part of your claim. For standard breakage or handling damage, photos and written documentation are the key evidence.
What if the moving company stops responding?
If a licensed Georgia mover goes silent on a valid claim, you have escalation options. File a complaint with the Georgia Department of Public Safety, which regulates intrastate movers under GA HHG licensing. You can also contact the BBB and, if the amount justifies it, consult a consumer protection attorney. Keeping all correspondence documented from the start puts you in the strongest position.
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