How to Read a Moving Company Safety Rating (2026 Guide)
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Check the FMCSA database to see if a company is listed as Authorized for interstate transport.
Look for a Satisfactory rating, though Not Rated is common for newer or smaller companies.
Avoid any mover showing an Unsatisfactory or Conditional safety rating on their federal profile.
You can verify a moving company in less than five minutes using the free federal database. Professional movers must hold active operating authority from the U.S. Department of Transportation. If a company cannot provide a USDOT number or shows as Not Authorized, you should remove them from your list immediately.
Learning how to read a moving company safety rating prevents you from hiring unlicensed operators who might hold your goods hostage. The FMCSA public SAFER database gives you the power to see active insurance status and pending safety complaints. Reliable companies will readily provide their license numbers because they know savvy customers perform this check before signing a contract.
How do I verify a mover’s federal license?
Every interstate mover is required by law to maintain a valid USDOT number and an MC number. You verify these credentials through the FMCSA SAFER system. Start by visiting the official website and selecting the Company Snapshot tool. Enter the company name or the seven digit USDOT number to see their current operating profile.
Understanding the company snapshot
When the profile appears, check the Operating Status field. It must state Authorized for the company to legally move your belongings across state lines. If you see Not Authorized, the company is likely operating illegally or lacks the necessary federal registration to perform long distance relocations.
Verifying active insurance coverage
Federal law mandates that interstate movers carry specific levels of liability and cargo insurance. Within the same snapshot, look for the insurance section to ensure coverage remains active. A reputable company meets or exceeds the federal minimums for public liability and cargo protection.
Before your move, an interstate mover is required to give you copies of two FMCSA publications, Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. If a mover refuses to provide these documents, consider it a serious warning sign.
After checking the status, compare the basic details found in the federal database with the information provided on your quote. Discrepancies between the physical address or company name on your estimate and the official registry should trigger a follow up call to verify their legitimacy.
What do safety ratings actually mean?
Federal safety ratings provide a snapshot of a company's compliance with federal rules. While many people search for a star system, the government uses a tiered scale to track carrier safety. You will generally see one of three designations on a profile.
Rating
Meaning
Action Required
Satisfactory
Company follows federal safety and compliance rules.
Safe to hire.
Not Rated
Company is too new or small for a federal audit.
Check for local complaints.
Conditional
Company failed to meet some federal safety standards.
Exercise extreme caution.
Unsatisfactory
Company has failed critical safety and compliance audits.
Do not hire.
Why Not Rated is common
Many honest and capable moving companies appear as Not Rated in the federal database. This status simply means the FMCSA has not yet conducted a full compliance review of their operations. You should supplement this information by reading customer feedback on independent forums or checking with your state consumer protection agency.
Identifying red flags in reports
Avoid any company with an Unsatisfactory rating. This designation indicates significant failures in vehicle maintenance, driver safety, or record keeping. You can verify a mover's license to ensure they are current before you commit to a deposit or sign any paperwork.
How do professional movers handle disputes?
Legitimate companies operate under strict guidelines regarding how they resolve issues with customers. Federal law mandates that all interstate movers participate in an arbitration program to settle disagreements over damage or billing. This protection exists to ensure you have a legal path forward if something goes wrong during your relocation.
Documenting your agreements
Your mover must provide a written summary of their arbitration program before you sign the bill of lading. This document explains exactly how a third party will handle any claims you might file. If a company claims they do not have such a program, they are not compliant with federal regulations for household goods carriers.
Protecting your household goods
Always keep your final bill of lading and your move estimate in a safe place. These documents serve as your primary evidence if you need to file a claim. You can try our moving cost calculator to ensure your quotes align with industry averages for your move size and distance.
What should I watch for besides safety ratings?
Safety ratings are a vital part of your research, but they do not capture the entire picture of a company's business practices. Scammers often use professional looking websites and fake reviews to lure customers into paying large upfront deposits. Always watch for high pressure sales tactics or demands for cash only payments.
Watch for pricing gaps
A quote that is significantly lower than competitors often signals a bait and switch tactic. Legitimate movers base their estimates on the weight of your goods or the cubic feet of your inventory. If you need help understanding current market pricing, you can browse more cost guides to see what a fair estimate looks like for your specific move.
Check local and state registration
While federal licensing covers the interstate aspect, some states require additional registration for movers operating within their borders. A quick search of your state's Department of Transportation website will reveal if your mover holds the required state authority. Combining this local check with your federal FMCSA search provides the most complete picture of a company's credentials.
Yes, it is often safe to hire a company with a Not Rated status. This simply indicates the company has not yet been audited by the federal government, which is common for smaller or newer businesses. Verify their physical address and check their reputation through other reliable sources before finalizing your booking.
What happens if I hire an unauthorized mover?
Hiring an unauthorized mover puts your property at high risk because these companies lack the mandatory insurance and accountability required by federal law. If they damage your items or withhold your belongings, you may have very limited legal recourse. Always confirm their operating status is listed as Authorized in the SAFER database.
Can I check a mover's history of complaints?
You can look for information regarding complaints within the carrier profile on the FMCSA website. Reviewing this data helps you identify patterns of behavior that might not appear in a company's marketing materials. Combine this official record with your own research to feel confident in your choice.
Verifying your mover’s license and safety status is the most effective way to prevent a difficult or expensive move. Use the FMCSA database to confirm their authority today and never feel pressured to sign a contract with a company that refuses to share their USDOT information.
