Maryland moving company rules

Estimates

Before an in-state move, the mover must give a written estimate that itemizes each service and fee, states the total, states when and how payment is due, and says clearly whether it is binding. With a binding estimate you cannot be required to pay more than the estimated total; with a nonbinding estimate you cannot be required to pay more than 125% of it plus certain excess charges for unforeseeable services. You may waive the written estimate only voluntarily and without coercion.

Insurance or bond

Registration requires proof of liability and cargo insurance meeting the federal minimums in 49 CFR 387.303 and proof of workers' compensation coverage for covered employees.

Where to complain

• Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection Division (damage, contract, payment and missing-property disputes)
• Maryland Department of Labor household goods movers consumer page (registration, insurance and workers' compensation issues)

Other Maryland rules to know

• A mover may not enforce or threaten a carrier's lien against your goods, or refuse to deliver them, on an in-state move.
• At the end of the move the mover must give you a written receipt with its legal name and the address and phone number of its Maryland resident agent or principal place of business.
• Registered movers must keep a copy of their registration in each truck used for moves.
• A violation of the Household Goods Movers Act is an unfair or deceptive trade practice under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act.
• The registration requirement covers movers using commercial motor vehicles as defined in federal safety rules, so it may not reach every small operator.