American Arbitration & Mediation Organization

Household Goods (HHG) and Overcharge Disputes

In cases where household goods are lost, damaged or destroyed, or where there is an overcharge dispute moving consumers are entitled to file an dispute resolution claim against the  company through arbitration. In fact, the U.S. Department of Transportation requires that disputed claims for loss or damage in the amount of $10,000 or less be submitted to arbitration.

The American Arbitration and Mediation Organization (AAMO) offers a Household Goods Dispute Settlement Program to assist consumers and United State Movers Association (USMA) member moving companies in the dispute resolution process. USMA is their chosen program administrator. Disputes are reviewed and decided by independent and neutral arbitrators.

Having USMA administering the process for AAMO makes it easier for customers and moving companies to have their disagreement resolved in a manner that is affordable and fair.

Disputed claims for loss or damage to household goods in the amount of $10,000 or less must be submitted to arbitration. For amounts greater than $10,000, the consumer and the moving company must mutually agree to submit the dispute to arbitration. Consumers may also request arbitration for disputes regarding the mover's charges; specifically, whether the mover's charges, in addition to those collected at delivery, must be paid by the consumer.

The USMA HHG Dispute Settlement Program Rules direct the AAMO Household Goods Dispute Settlement Program. More information about the USMA Dispute Settlement Program is available on the USMA website ( www.usmoving.org ) including the arbitration request form.

What Kind of Arbitration?

AAMO arbitration is binding.

AAMO arbitration is termed a 'desk' arbitration which means that the entire dispute is handled by written documentation and correspondence.  There is no need to be present at a location.

Questions may be answered by calling the administrative staff of the United States Movers Association at

623 237-3255