Licensing and compliance

How interstate moves are regulated

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, regulates companies that move household goods between states. Such a company must hold a USDOT number and operating authority, and it must follow federal rules on estimates, weighing, delivery and claims.

Moves that start and end in the same state fall under that state's own rules, which vary. Our state-to-state page explains the difference.

What we expect from network companies

• Active federal registration for interstate household goods moves
• Insurance that meets legal minimums, with liability coverage options explained to you in writing
• Written estimates that state their type clearly
• The FMCSA booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move given to you before the move
• Direct moves only, with no other customers' goods on your truck

Check any mover yourself

You should never rely on a company's own word. Whether you use our network or not, run through these steps before you sign.

1. Ask for the company's USDOT and MC numbers.
2. Look the company up on the FMCSA company snapshot and confirm it is authorized for household goods.
3. Search the National Consumer Complaint Database for the company's history.
4. Get the estimate in writing and confirm which type it is.
5. Be careful with large deposits requested up front.

More official sources are collected on our moving resources page.

If something goes wrong

Tell the moving company in writing first, and keep copies of your inventory and bill of lading. If it is not resolved, you can file a complaint with FMCSA. You can also write to us through the contact page about any move arranged through MOOVERS.ONE.