Part 375 — Transportation of Household Goods
49 CFR Part 375: The core consumer protection regulation for interstate household goods movers.
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49 CFR Part 375 is the primary federal consumer protection regulation for interstate household goods transportation. It establishes the rules that moving companies must follow in their interactions with residential customers, from the initial estimate through delivery and dispute resolution.
Key requirements under Part 375 include the obligation to provide written estimates (either binding or non-binding), to give customers the FMCSA-required consumer rights brochure, to offer customers a choice of valuation coverage for their belongings, and to maintain a neutral arbitration program for resolving disputes without litigation.
Part 375 also limits when movers can hold shipments for non-payment — a practice historically associated with hostage-load scams — and sets requirements for delivery timeframes and notification. Violations of Part 375 can result in FMCSA enforcement action and expose movers to civil liability to customers, making compliance essential for any interstate moving operation.
Key Provisions
- Requires written estimates (binding or non-binding) before any household goods move.
- Mandates that customers receive the FMCSA consumer rights brochure before signing any documents.
- Requires movers to offer valuation options — customers must choose their coverage level in writing.
- Requires movers to maintain an arbitration program for customer dispute resolution.
- Restricts the ability to hold shipments for non-payment, addressing the hostage load problem.
Why It Matters to Truck Owners
If you own or are purchasing trucks used in household goods moving, the regulatory burden under Part 375 is substantially heavier than for general freight carriers. The consumer protection requirements here create significant exposure if ignored — FMCSA enforcement actions against movers for Part 375 violations are common, and unhappy customers can also file civil claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a binding vs. non-binding estimate under Part 375?
A binding estimate is a guaranteed price — the mover cannot charge more than the quoted amount regardless of actual weight. A non-binding estimate is an approximation, and the final charge is based on actual weight. Movers must clearly indicate which type of estimate they are providing and follow the rules for each type.
What is the FMCSA consumer rights brochure for movers?
FMCSA requires interstate movers to give customers a copy of its consumer rights brochure before they sign any documents or provide any payment. This brochure explains customer rights on estimates, liability, delivery, and dispute resolution. Failing to provide it is a Part 375 violation.
Can a moving company hold your belongings for non-payment?
Part 375 limits this practice. Movers can collect charges at delivery, but the rules on when and how shipments can be held are strictly regulated. Holding a shipment hostage for charges above the binding estimate or outside the allowed procedures is a federal violation.
Read the official legal text: 49 CFR Part 375 — eCFR.gov (official)
Related Federal Trucking Laws
- Part 370 — Loss and Damage Claims (Household Goods)
- Part 376 — Lease and Interchange of Vehicles
- Part 379 — Preservation of Records
- Part 391 — Driver Qualifications
This page is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always verify current requirements at fmcsa.dot.gov or with a qualified transportation attorney.
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