Moving from one residence to another is hard work that often requires the help of professional movers.

Still, there are times when items handled by the movers get unintentionally damaged or go missing.

TxDOT offers guidance for customers of Texas moving companies on how to handle losses incurred during a move, plus how to best prevent them in the first place.

Step 1: File A Complaint With The Moving Company

When finding damaged or missing items after unpacking after a move, customers should immediately reach out to their movers with a written statement explaining their findings and a request for reimbursement.

Claims must be filed within 90 days of the date that the moving company delivers the items and include a specific dollar amount being sought based on the type of insurance coverage agreed to in the contract for services.

Unless additional coverage or transit insurance was purchased from the service beforehand, the mover is responsible for 60 cents per pound per article by state law.

Within 20 days of receipt of the letter, moving services must acknowledge the claim with the customer.

They also have 30 days from the claim receipt to request to inspect damaged items or boxes and must respond with a payment or denial within 90 days of receipt.

Step 2: Contact TxDOT For Mediation

After contacting a moving company, a customer who is not satisfied with the result of their attempt to receive compensation for their damaged or missing items can contact TxDOT for mediation services.

Whether their claim is not acknowledged by the mover, the claim is denied, or they are dissatisfied with the amount of compensation the moving service has offered, TxDOT may be able to help.

Mediation must be requested no later than 30 days after a claim denial or unsatisfactory response is received or no later than 90 days if no response at all is received from the mover.

Mediation that seeks an agreement between the moving company and their dissatisfied customer will be conducted by a neutral third party provided by TxDOT.

Step 3: Go To Court

TxDOT provides mediation services when dealing with a state-registered, licensed moving company; however, it does not settle claims between parties.

If mediation is unproductive, customers can progress to filing a lawsuit seeking compensation.

How to Reduce Chances of Moving Damage Disputes

Although TxDOT monitors moving companies registered in the state to ensure they are providing quality service to their customers, these are some recommendations for preventing losses that can lead to disputes:

Research moving companies well, confirm their licensing, registration, and liability insurance, and hire a reputable one.
Understand the extent of damage coverage the company is providing plus any rules that apply for that coverage before agreeing to services to prevent any avoidable surprises.
Purchase additional insurance protection or separate transit insurance for more extensive coverage, especially when moving fragile or expensive items.
Hire the moving company to professionally pack items, as many provide higher coverage for items that they pack.

Hire A Respected Local Mover For Dispute-Free Service

Moving mistakes happen and items can get damaged in transit.

Licensed, respected movers who operate legally in Texas under TxDOT moving laws understand their duty to resolve damage claims with customers and each customer’s right to seek mediation with TxDOT.

Fortunately, the best moving companies will work to handle claims positively so they can retain their good standing with TxDOT and local communities.

Always hire a registered, licensed Texas mover in good standing with TxDOT to ensure a favorable experience, even when things go wrong.