What License Do Interstate Movers Need to Move You?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 5 min read
Quick Answer
All interstate movers must hold a valid USDOT number registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Moving brokers must clearly disclose their status as a broker rather than a carrier before you sign any contract.
You can protect yourself by checking a mover's license status and complaint history through official federal databases.
Navigating the logistics of a long distance move often feels overwhelming, especially when you start worrying about the legitimacy of the people handling your belongings. You might wonder if the moving company you found online is actually authorized to cross state lines. The reality is that the industry is heavily regulated to ensure your property remains protected during transit. If a company is moving your household goods from one state to another, they are legally required to carry specific federal credentials.
Finding out if a mover is legitimate does not require a law degree, but it does require knowing where to look. A simple USDOT number acts as the primary identifier for any commercial carrier operating across state boundaries. This number tells the government that the company has registered its equipment and agreed to follow federal safety guidelines. Verify a mover's license to ensure they are properly registered before you provide a deposit.
What license do interstate movers need to operate?
The role of the USDOT number
Every legitimate interstate mover must obtain a unique identifier from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration known as a USDOT number. This number tracks the company for safety compliance, crash records, and insurance filings. When you speak with a moving company representative, ask them directly for their USDOT number. If they refuse to provide it or seem hesitant, you should treat that as a significant red flag.
Distinguishing between carriers and brokers
Not every company that gives you a quote is actually going to move your furniture. Many businesses act as brokers, which means they sell your move to a third party carrier. Federal rules are strict here, as brokers must disclose their role to you before you sign any paperwork. Always confirm whether the person you are talking to owns the trucks or if they are simply a sales entity connecting you to a carrier.
State versus federal authority
While the USDOT number covers interstate moves, individual states often add their own layers of regulation. Some states require separate intrastate permits even for companies that primarily work across borders. Checking your state’s consumer affairs website can reveal if your chosen mover has also satisfied local legal requirements. Browse more cost guides to understand how these regulatory costs might eventually influence your final moving quote.
How to verify your mover's status
Using the FMCSA database
The most reliable way to check a company is through the official FMCSA database. You can search by the company name or their USDOT number to see their current operating status. If the status says active, it means the company is legally authorized to handle your interstate move. Do not rely on claims made on a flashy website, as professional scammers often copy and paste fake registration numbers to appear legitimate.
Checking complaint history
Even a licensed company might have a history of poor service or damaged property. The FMCSA maintains a National Consumer Complaint Database where you can look for patterns of bad behavior. If you see numerous complaints regarding lost items or unexpected price hikes, you might want to look elsewhere. You have the right to file your own complaint for free if a mover fails to provide the service you paid for.
Verification Step
Purpose
Where to Check
USDOT Number
Confirms federal registration
FMCSA Protect Your Move
MC Number
Tracks interstate authority
FMCSA SAFER System
Insurance Policy
Covers loss and damage
Ask for Certificate of Insurance
Complaint History
Checks track record
National Consumer Complaint Database
What protections do you have during a move?
The arbitration requirement
Disputes are unfortunately common in the moving industry, ranging from damaged heirlooms to surprise fees. Federal regulations require that all interstate household goods movers participate in an arbitration program to resolve these conflicts. This program must be summarized in writing for you before you sign your bill of lading. If a company refuses to discuss their arbitration process, they are likely ignoring basic federal requirements.
Your rights as a consumer
When you hire a mover, you are entitled to clear information about your costs and responsibilities. Companies are not allowed to hide the details of your move or keep you in the dark about who will actually move your items. If a mover is pushing you to sign a blank contract or offering a price that sounds too good to be true, you should walk away immediately. Try our moving cost calculator to get a realistic estimate for your relocation expenses.
Always ensure your mover provides a written summary of their arbitration program before you sign the bill of lading, as this is a legal requirement for all interstate household goods carriers to protect you in the event of a dispute.
No, a USDOT number is issued by the federal government for interstate transport, while a state license is issued by local authorities for operations within state lines. Many movers need both if they perform both long distance and local work. You should verify both types of credentials if you suspect your move falls under local jurisdiction.
How do I know if a mover is a broker or a carrier?
A carrier owns the trucks and employs the crew that moves your items, while a broker simply arranges the service. You can check the FMCSA website to see how a company is registered, but they are also legally required to disclose this information to you upfront. If you are uncertain about their role, ask them directly whether they will be the ones physically handling your goods.
Can I sue a moving company for damage?
While you can take legal action, the federal government mandates that companies participate in an arbitration program to settle disputes over loss or damage first. This process is generally faster and less expensive than traditional litigation for most consumers. You should keep detailed records of your inventory and any damage to support your claim during this process.
Taking the time to verify your mover’s status now saves you significant stress on moving day. Always check their USDOT registration and ensure they have a clear process for handling potential disputes. Use the official government databases to confirm they are active and authorized before you sign anything.
