June 22, 2012

This week, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a final rule that strengthens protections for consumers moving their property across state lines. Under the new rule, if a household goods moving company and the consumer negotiate a revised written cost estimate for the move, all additional goods or services must be accurately listed on the revised estimate. The rule also removes undue burdens for moving companies by eliminating the requirement that they specify who would pay for collect calls from consumers. It also clarifies that goods transported from the factory or store to a consumer’s residence are not covered by federal household goods regulations. To learn more about the Transportation of Household Goods in Interstate Commerce Consumer Protection Regulations Final Rule, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov. Contact Candice T. Burns: (202) 366-9999.

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