Search the FMCSA SAFER database using a company's USDOT or MC number to confirm their operating status in under five minutes.
You must ensure the company has active operating authority and valid insurance before you sign any moving contract.
Always verify if you are talking to a carrier or a broker, as brokers are legally required to disclose their status before you book.
You can verify any interstate moving company in the United States by spending five minutes on the official federal government website. Federal law requires every legitimate interstate mover to maintain an active USDOT number and an MC number. If a company cannot provide these identifiers, you should stop the conversation immediately.
Using the FMCSA portal prevents you from handing your belongings to an unlicensed operator or a predatory broker. This process is free and serves as your first line of defense against moving fraud. You can verify a mover's license online to confirm they are registered to cross state lines.
Why is federal verification essential for your move?
Moving scams often involve companies that lack the legal authority to transport household goods across state lines. When you verify a mover with FMCSA, you are checking if they meet federal safety and insurance standards. An unauthorized company often lacks the cargo insurance necessary to cover your items if they are lost or destroyed during transit.
The risks of hiring an unregistered carrier
Unlicensed companies frequently increase prices after loading your belongings onto a truck. These entities often use shell companies to avoid accountability for damaged goods or late deliveries. By checking the database, you ensure the company has a verified physical address and proper registration.
How to identify a moving broker
Many companies you find online are not moving companies at all but rather lead generators. A broker arranges your move by selling your information to the lowest bidder. Federal regulations require these brokers to disclose their status to you before you book. You should always ask if the company owns the trucks or if they plan to hire a third party to handle your items.
How to use the FMCSA database correctly
The SAFER website remains the gold standard for researching movers. You start by visiting the site and entering the company name or their USDOT number into the search bar. The system generates a snapshot of their current compliance status, including their safety rating and insurance coverage.
What to look for in the search results
You want to see a status marked as active for operating authority. If the system reports that their authority is revoked or not authorized, the company cannot legally move your property. You should also check the insurance section to verify they carry the required bodily injury and property damage coverage.
Using the National Consumer Complaint Database
The federal government tracks patterns of complaints through the National Consumer Complaint Database. You can access this data to see if a company has a history of high complaint volumes regarding missing items or unethical pricing. Keep in mind that a single complaint might be an outlier, but a pattern of similar issues should be a major warning sign.
Verification Step
What to Confirm
Why it Matters
USDOT Number
Must be active and valid
Legitimacy and legal status
Operating Authority
Must show as authorized
Permits crossing state lines
Insurance
Must be active and sufficient
Protects your personal goods
Company Type
Carrier vs. Broker
Determines who is moving items
You can try our moving cost calculator to see how real price ranges for your route compare to the quotes you receive from verified companies.
How to protect your rights during the move
Federal law gives you specific protections when you hire interstate movers. These regulations exist to ensure you understand your financial obligations before the truck arrives at your door. You should never feel pressured to sign a contract without reviewing these documents.
Required federal publications
Every interstate mover is required by law to provide you with two specific publications before your move. These are titled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. If a company refuses to provide these or claims they are unnecessary, look for another provider.
You have the right to file a complaint about any moving company through the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database if you encounter deceptive practices during your relocation.
Checking for hidden costs
Moving estimates often vary based on weight, volume, and distance. A reputable company will provide a binding or non-binding estimate that clearly outlines the potential costs. If you need more help planning your budget, you can browse more cost guides to understand the current market rates.
How to spot the most common moving scams
Professional movers rarely demand large cash deposits before the day of the move. Most legitimate interstate carriers collect payment upon delivery or through a structured agreement. Be wary of any company that insists on wire transfers or demands thousands of dollars upfront.
Red flags in the sales process
A high-pressure sales pitch that demands you book now to get a special discount is a classic tactic used by bad actors. Professional companies focus on gathering details about your inventory to provide an accurate estimate. They do not rely on aggressive urgency to force a decision.
Following your gut instinct
If a price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Verify a mover with FMCSA to see if they are a real business with a history of safe operations. Taking these extra steps ensures your household goods reach your new home without unnecessary drama.
Can I check if a mover is legitimate without a USDOT number?
You can search the FMCSA database using the company name if you do not have their USDOT number. However, you should be skeptical of any company that does not display their USDOT number prominently on their website or marketing materials.
What should I do if my mover is not authorized on the FMCSA site?
Do not book with them under any circumstances. You should immediately look for a different moving company that shows an active and authorized status in the federal database.
Are brokers allowed to handle my moving contract?
Brokers are allowed to arrange moves, but they are legally required to disclose their status before you book. They must provide you with the name and contact information of the actual carrier that will be performing the physical move.
When you take the time to verify a mover with FMCSA, you shift the power back to your side of the table. Use these tools today to ensure you only deal with legitimate companies that have the legal authority to handle your move.
