Reconcile Inventory at Moving Delivery

Check a moving delivery against both inventories, record visible condition and missing IDs, and keep the receipt process separate from later claims.

Set up a receiving station

Have the mover's inventory, your household inventory and the bill of lading available before unloading starts. Put a room guide near the entrance and assign one person to record arrivals if staffing allows. Another person can direct placement so the inventory checker does not lose track while answering room questions.

Use the mover's item numbers and your box IDs together. If a carton carries both inventory sticker 046 and household label KIT-014, record the connection. Count furniture pieces and detachable components, not just cartons. A delivered table top does not confirm that its legs and hardware also arrived.

Describe what you actually checked

Received, externally inspected and contents checked are different statuses. Do not mark a sealed carton fully checked when you have only seen its exterior. Note visible crushing, wet areas or broken seals factually, then photograph the carton and identifying labels before unpacking changes its condition.

FMCSA's interstate guidance tells consumers to compare delivery with the mover's inventory and record missing or damaged items. Review the delivery records before signing and make appropriate notations on both copies. Do not sign a statement that inaccurately says everything was received in good condition. Ask about unexpected release language; receipt of delivery is not a reason to accept a blanket release of carrier liability.

Reconcile unresolved items before the truck leaves

For a missing ID, check alternate rooms, furniture wrapping and any documented split shipment. Ask the crew to verify its records and record the unresolved item clearly. Avoid replacing the original count with the number currently found, which would erase the discrepancy.

If a carton is found later, update the record with its location and time without deleting the earlier entry. Save photographs and copies of signed documents in the moving folder. Keep damaged packaging or items pending the carrier's instructions where practical and safe.

A delivery notation is not the same as filing a written claim. Request the carrier's claims process promptly for unresolved loss or damage, and retain proof of submission. For an intrastate move, check the applicable state requirements. The receiving worksheet helps preserve facts; it does not determine liability or guarantee a particular settlement.