Updated October 10, 2026
When a move crosses a state line, federal rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) apply. Knowing them protects you from the most common problems: a price that grows on delivery day, or a mover that is not licensed at all.
Check the mover first
An interstate mover must have a U.S. DOT number and operating authority. You can look up any mover for free on the FMCSA website. Ours is U.S. DOT No. 967970, MC-432549. FMCSA also publishes steps for choosing a mover and the Ready to Move? brochure.
Binding and non-binding estimates
A binding estimate fixes the price for the services listed. A non-binding estimate is an approximation: the final charges depend on the actual shipment and services. Under a non-binding estimate, FMCSA says the mover cannot require you to pay more than 110 percent of the estimate at delivery, plus services you added after the contract and certain impracticable-operation charges, which are capped. If the bill is higher, the mover must deliver on payment of the 110 percent and bill the rest later.
Paperwork you should get
Expect a written estimate, an order for service, an inventory and a bill of lading. Read the valuation section: it decides how loss or damage is handled. The FMCSA booklet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” explains each document.
If something goes wrong
Talk to the mover first and put complaints in writing. FMCSA takes complaints online and at 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238) when a mover fails to deliver after you paid the required amount.
Planning a long-distance move from Long Island
Book early for month-end and summer dates. Decide what you will not take; every item travels at the same care level. Keep valuables, documents and medicine with you. Ask whether you need storage between homes; we can store and deliver when you are ready.
Common questions
What is the 110 percent rule for movers?
Under a non-binding estimate, FMCSA says the mover cannot require more than 110 percent of the estimate at delivery, with limited exceptions.
How do I check if a long-distance mover is licensed?
Look up the U.S. DOT number on the FMCSA website. Ours is 967970 (MC-432549).
What is a binding estimate?
An estimate that fixes the price for the services listed in it.
Where do I complain about an interstate mover?
FMCSA takes complaints online and at 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238).
Get your written estimate
Call (516) 246-5901 or send the quote form on our home page with both addresses, the floors, elevator or stairs, your date and your main items. You get a written estimate before moving day. Moving Service By Two Guys is part of A & A Alliance Moving Inc, a family business since 1999; licences and history are on our company facts page.
Rules and city services change. We checked the official links on this page on October 10, 2026; confirm on the linked page before you book.
Official sources
- FMCSA: Estimating charges (binding and non-binding estimates)
- FMCSA: Your rights and responsibilities when you move
- FMCSA: Ready to Move? brochure (PDF)
- FMCSA: Steps to select a mover
- FMCSA SAFER: U.S. DOT 967970 record