Let’s face it – nobody gets into the moving business because they love paperwork. But ignoring FMCSA rules is like skipping leg day. Sure, you might get away with it for a while… until you’re limping through a DOT audit wondering where it all went wrong.

We get it. You’ve got trucks to run, customers to calm, and couches to wedge through doorways. So here’s a quick guide to the violations that most often trip up movers – and how to dodge them like a pro.

  1. Incomplete or Incorrect Bills of Lading
     Think of the BOL as your legal armor. When it’s half-filled, missing valuation info, or doesn’t include the required 17 FMCSA items, it’s like charging into battle wearing flip-flops. Use a digital BOL that guides your team through every step – yep, we’ve got one.

  2. Not Providing a Written Estimate (or Botching It)
     Verbal quotes are great… for losing disputes. FMCSA requires written, signed estimates – binding or non-binding – with all charges spelled out. Otherwise, you’re building your invoice on a handshake and a dream.

  3. Failure to Provide “Your Rights and Responsibilities”
     It’s not optional. Skipping this booklet makes it look like you’re hiding something – and the FMCSA agrees. Include it early, often, and automatically.

  4. Missing or Sloppy Tariffs
     Your tariff is the rulebook. If it’s outdated, inconsistent, or written in ancient runes, you could be charging customers illegally. Our workflow builder makes sure it’s FMCSA-ready and readable by humans.

  5. Not Offering Arbitration
     FMCSA requires arbitration to resolve loss or damage disputes under $10,000. If you don’t offer it, you could be forced into court – and no one wants their day in court over a scratched dresser.

  6. Ignoring Driver Qualification Files
     Yes, even your cousin Bob needs a proper file. Missing background checks, expired medical cards, and mystery employment gaps are all audit landmines.

  7. Not Keeping Vehicle Maintenance Logs
     FMCSA likes receipts. If your logs are MIA and your truck breaks down, you’ll be explaining yourself to someone with a clipboard and a badge.

  8. Skipping Hours-of-Service Compliance
     Letting drivers fudge their logs is not a vibe. ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices) are required, and violations can get you shut down faster than you can say “backhaul.”

The Bottom Line
FMCSA violations aren’t just annoying – they’re expensive, reputation-wrecking, and totally avoidable. With tools like our digital Bill of Lading, and our training sessions, you don’t have to play guessing games with compliance.

Stay sharp, stay compliant, and save the drama for loading day.

 

Sources: FMCSA enforcement data and regulations (Research via ChatGPT).