Search for a moving company by name or USDOT number on the FMCSA SAFER database to find their official operating status.
Avoid any company with an "Unsatisfactory" safety rating or a status marked as "Not Authorized" for interstate hauling.
Ensure your mover holds both an active USDOT number and an MC number before you sign any contract or pay a deposit.
Checking the safety record of a moving company is the single most effective way to prevent a disaster on moving day. Most people assume that any company appearing in a Google search is fully licensed and safe to handle their household goods. In reality, the barrier to entry is low, and verifying the credentials of your chosen team takes less than five minutes of your time.
You do not need to be an expert in federal regulations to spot a red flag. A quick check of the federal database tells you whether a mover is legally authorized to cross state lines or if they are operating under a cloud of unresolved safety complaints. Protecting your belongings starts with this basic verification process, which saves you from potential scams.
How do I verify a moving company using the FMCSA database?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains a public registry that tracks every legitimate interstate mover in the United States. You should visit the SAFER Company Snapshot website to begin your verification. Simply enter the company name or their unique USDOT number into the search tool to pull up their profile.
Once you have the profile open, look directly at the operating status. A company that is fit to move your property must display an "Authorized" status for property and household goods. If you see the words "Not Authorized" or "Inactive," you should stop your evaluation immediately and look for a different mover.
What to look for in the company snapshot
When you view the company profile, focus on the section labeled operating authority. You are looking for a clear indication that they are registered to move household goods. If the company is actually a broker, they must clearly state that they arrange moves rather than perform the physical transport themselves.
Understanding the safety rating tiers
The government assigns safety ratings to carriers based on their compliance history and performance. A rating of "Satisfactory" is the gold standard, though you will often see "Not Rated" for newer or smaller companies. You should exercise extreme caution if you encounter a rating of "Conditional" or "Unsatisfactory," as these indicate known issues with safety or compliance.
Why do USDOT and MC numbers matter for my move?
Every interstate mover is required by law to display a USDOT number and an MC number on their promotional materials and contracts. These numbers are your link to their legal record, insurance status, and safety history. If a company refuses to provide these numbers upon request, they are likely trying to hide a lack of credentials.
The table below outlines the core credentials you should look for when vetting any long distance moving provider.
Credential Type
What it verifies
Why you need it
USDOT Number
Operating authority
Confirms they are registered with the government.
MC Number
Interstate legal status
Required for moving goods across state lines.
Public Liability
Minimum $750,000 policy
Protects against damage caused during transport.
Surety Bond
Minimum $75,000
Provides protection against dishonest business practices.
You can verify a mover's license quickly by entering these numbers into the SAFER system. This simple step confirms the information matches the business you are speaking with on the phone.
What are the warning signs of a moving scam?
Moving companies that operate outside of federal guidelines often rely on high pressure sales tactics to secure your deposit. If a company demands a large cash deposit before providing a detailed, written estimate, walk away. Legitimate movers base their pricing on a physical or video inspection of your home to provide an accurate try our moving cost calculator to see what your move might actually cost.
Always verify that a mover has active cargo insurance. If a company cannot provide proof of insurance coverage, your property will not be protected if it is lost or damaged during the transit process.
Beware of companies that offer prices far lower than their competitors. These companies often add hidden fees once your items are already loaded on the truck, holding your possessions hostage until you pay a higher total. Browse more cost guides to understand the standard pricing for moves in your specific region.
How do I report a bad moving company?
If you experience a serious issue during your move, you have a formal channel for reporting the company. The FMCSA operates a National Consumer Complaint Database where individuals can file reports about household goods movers. This database is critical for helping the government track patterns of poor behavior and identifying companies that pose a threat to consumers.
Gathering documentation for a complaint
You will need your contract, the final bill of lading, and the exact USDOT number of the company to file a complete report. Document every interaction where the company failed to meet their agreement. Photos of damaged items or records of delayed arrival times are also helpful for your case.
What happens after I file a complaint
Filing a complaint does not always guarantee an immediate refund or individual resolution, but it does flag the company for federal review. This collective data allows regulators to take action against repeat offenders. By contributing to the database, you help protect future customers from the same treatment you received.
No, a "Not Rated" status is common for smaller or newer companies that have not yet undergone a full federal safety audit. You should still verify that they have an active USDOT number and valid insurance before moving forward.
What is the difference between a carrier and a broker?
A carrier is a company that owns the trucks and performs the physical move, while a broker is an agent that sells your move to a third party. Brokers must disclose their status as a broker before you book your move.
Can I check local moving companies the same way?
Federal databases track interstate moves, but local or intrastate moves are often regulated by state agencies instead. You should check your state department of transportation or consumer protection office for local licensing requirements.
Take the time to verify your mover's credentials today to avoid a headache tomorrow. Check their USDOT number on the federal database and ensure they hold active insurance before signing any contract.
