A federally required alternative to court
AmeriSafe Van Lines maintains a neutral arbitration program that gives our interstate moving customers an alternative to litigation for resolving certain disputes. Federal law, Section 49 U.S.C. § 375.211, requires every licensed interstate household-goods mover to make an arbitration program available to its customers.
Arbitration is a process in which both sides present their case to a neutral, independent arbitrator who issues a decision on the merits. For consumers, participation in the program is voluntary, you are never required to arbitrate, and you may instead pursue other remedies available to you under the law.
What the program covers
The arbitration program is available to resolve disputes between AmeriSafe Van Lines and our customers (consumer shippers) arising out of an interstate move, including disputes over loss of or damage to household goods, and disputes over the charges billed for the move.
How arbitration works
Arbitration is decided by a neutral third-party arbitrator rather than a court. The process is conducted primarily through written submissions; a telephonic hearing may be held at the arbitrator's discretion. The arbitrator's decision is based exclusively on the United States federal law governing the interstate transportation of household goods, without regard to conflicting state laws.
Binding decisions and claim thresholds
An arbitrator's decision is binding on both parties and generally may not be appealed in court.
- For disputes of less than $10,000, AmeriSafe Van Lines is required to participate in arbitration if the customer requests it.
- For disputes of $10,000 or more, the carrier's participation in arbitration is voluntary.
How to request arbitration
Either party may initiate arbitration by submitting a written arbitration request (referral form) to the program's independent administrator, the Transportation ADR Council, Inc. The administrator then notifies the other party and arranges the proceeding.
The party initiating arbitration submits a written summary of its legal position with supporting documentation to all parties. The responding party then has 30 days to file its responsive arbitration brief and supporting documentation. Any additional deadlines are set at the arbitrator’s discretion.
Selecting the arbitrator
Both parties jointly select a neutral arbitrator from the administrator's list, with the administrator facilitating agreement between the parties.
Fees and costs
The party requesting arbitration is generally responsible for the filing fee. Typical program costs are as follows:
- A $300 filing fee to open the arbitration.
- An additional $50 for each separately represented party beyond the first two parties.
- Arbitrators set their own hourly rates, which may exceed $300 per hour.
- Each party pays 50% of the cost of arbitrator selection and 100% of its own costs, including any attorney's fees.
- Long-distance telephone, fax, conference-call, and other incidental administrator costs are billed separately. The administrator may require advance payment of administrative and arbitration fees.
Request the program or more information
To request the arbitration program forms, ask a question, or begin the process, contact AmeriSafe Van Lines at 855-967-0102 or info@amerisafemoving.com. Please reference your job or order number. AmeriSafe Van Lines is a properly licensed interstate motor carrier and moving broker, authorized by the FMCSA, USDOT 3341650, MC 1066696, and these credentials can be verified on the FMCSA SAFER website.
This page summarizes the arbitration program for general information. It does not replace the official program rules, your bill of lading, or your move contract, which control in the event of any conflict.