Long-distance movers often provide a delivery window instead of one exact delivery day because timing can be affected by distance, routing, other scheduled shipments, traffic, weather, and unexpected delays.
For interstate moves, the agreed pickup and delivery dates or periods should appear in your moving documents. A delivery window does not mean the mover has unlimited time to deliver your belongings.
How Long Does a Moving Company Legally Have to Deliver?
There is no single federal number of days that applies to every interstate move.
Interstate household-goods movers are required to transport shipments with reasonable dispatch, meaning delivery should occur on the dates or within the period agreed to with the customer and documented for the shipment.
What if the Movers Are Late?
If an interstate mover cannot meet the agreed pickup or delivery period, the mover must notify you of the delay and provide updated dates or a period when service can be provided.
If your delivery window has passed, contact the mover and document the delay. Keep your:
- Bill of lading and order for service.
- Written communication with the mover.
- Receipts for expenses caused by the delay.
If you incur additional expenses because the mover fails to meet the agreed delivery period, you may be able to recover eligible expenses through a delay-of-shipment claim.
Can You Get a Guaranteed Delivery Date?
Some movers offer guaranteed pickup or delivery service, often for an additional charge.
Before booking, ask whether the dates you're given are estimated, a delivery window, or guaranteed, and make sure any guaranteed service terms are documented in writing.