Updates to ATA-MSC Arbitration Program

Effective April 1, 2026, the ATA-MSC (American Trucking Association Moving & Storage Conference) will be implementing updates to the ATA-MSC Household Goods Dispute Settlement Program Rules. These changes address important administrative improvements for ATA-MSC staff while also responding to the difficulties movers and consumers have had with the current process. The changes to the rules are summarized below:

• Rule 3: In the past, some arbitration requests included issues beyond loss and damage or disputed charges. To address this, the rules have been updated to clarify that arbitration can now include matters outside this scope only if both the carrier and shipper agree. This change allows the carrier to specifically consent to arbitration solely for loss and damage or disputed charges, or to address the entire claim if other items are involved.
  

• Rule 7: If a dispute claim is valued at $10,000 or less and ATA-MSC does not receive a written response from the Carrier within the 15 working day deadline, ATA-MSC will issue arbitration forms to the shipper without the written response of the Carrier.
  

• Rule 8: The amount of FORUM’s Administrative Fee continues to be based on the amount of the Shipper’s Claim that is in dispute. FORUM's updated fee schedule is outlined in Rule 8 of the updated program rules.
  

• Rule 18: ATA-MSC can now issue a one-time 15-day extension to either party upon request without requiring mutual agreement between the carrier and shipper.
  

• Submission of materials to FORUM: Materials may be submitted to FORUM via mail, email, or through FORUM's new online filing portal. 

As we roll out the new rules on April 1st, to ensure a smooth transition, please update your records and communicate the following information to shippers: 

• Arbitration Request Form: Please direct shippers to initiate arbitration requests through our online platform at moving.org/arbitration. 
  

• Updated Documentation: When sharing information with consumers regarding arbitration, please replace your ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Brochure, ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Contact Sheet, and ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Rules. Discard any previous versions and replace them with the documents linked below. 
  

  • ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Brochure

  • ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Contact Sheet

  • ATA-MSC Dispute Settlement Program Rules

As a membership benefit and to support compliance with Federal interstate household goods consumer protection regulations, ATA-MSC members automatically participate in the ATA-MSC Household Goods Dispute Settlement Program at no additional charge.  We understand that such changes take time to implement, and we appreciate your support while we undergo this transition. If you have any questions regarding the new rules or arbitration itself, please do not hesitate to reach out to moving@trucking.org, and we will be happy to assist.