The easiest way to verify if a mover is licensed is through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) database for interstate movers or your state’s licensing agency for local moves. We’ll explain how to verify a mover’s license and what to do if a company isn’t legitimate.
Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Key Takeaways
- Working with licensed moving companies protects you from scams and low-quality service
- Be wary of companies that don’t display or provide license numbers, or whose company name doesn’t match FMCSA listings
- Use our website and moving cost calculator to find reputable movers. We only feature licensed, insured companies that our team has carefully vetted for quality and reliability.
Why You Can Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased moving information and company reviews.
Using our proprietary rating system, we evaluate thousands of moving companies nationwide based on pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. Our experts fully fact-check every review to keep information up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to your move.
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Why Mover Licenses Matter
Licensed movers must follow strict state and federal regulations to ensure professionalism, accountability, and safe handling of your belongings. Choosing a licensed mover protects you from fake companies, unexpected fees, and poor service.
Unlicensed movers often lack insurance and may use like bait-and-switch pricing or holding your belongings hostage. Verifying licensing is one of the easiest ways to avoid moving scams and ensure a smooth experience.
What Moving Licenses Protect You From
- Shady, fly-by-night companies that take deposits and disappear
- Uninsured movers who can’t cover damaged or lost belongings
- Hostage scams, where movers refuse delivery without extra payment
- Hidden or undisclosed fees for stairs or long carries
- Bait-and-switch pricing with last-minute cost hikes
- Untrained crews using improper equipment that causes damage
The Role of the FMCSA
The FMCSA regulates interstate moving companies by issuing USDOT (United States Department of Transportation) and MC (motor carrier) numbers. Movers must prove insurance coverage, file required paperwork, and follow safety standards to obtain and keep these licenses.
FMCSA records also include safety violations, inspection results, and customer complaints, all of which are public through their Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) system.
However, the FMCSA only regulates interstate movers. Local or intrastate movers are regulated at the state level.
How To Verify an Interstate Mover License
- Get the USDOT number. Licensed interstate movers are required to list this number on their website, contracts, and moving trucks. You’ll usually find it at the bottom of their website or paperwork.
- Search the FMCSA database. Visit the FMCSA SAFER web portal and enter the USDOT number. Check that the company’s USDOT status is active, and that they have operating authority for HHG (household goods).
- Check insurance and approval status. Scroll further on the FMCSA report to see inspection and crash data. Review out-of-service rates to gauge safety compliance, and note any recorded accidents. Movers with multiple violations or poor safety scores may not be a reliable choice, even if their license is active.
How To Verify a Local Mover License
Local or intrastate movers aren’t regulated by the FMCSA, but most states still require them to hold a license or registration. The specific agency varies by state, but it is often the department of transportation, department of commerce, or public utilities commission. For example, Florida movers register with the FDACS, Texas movers with the DMV Motor Carrier Division, and California movers with the Bureau of Household Goods and Services.
Search “[Your State] intrastate mover license” to find your state’s verification database.
Warning Signs a Mover Isn’t Legit
- Doesn’t display or provide licensing numbers
- Company name doesn’t match FMCSA records
- Operates under multiple business names
- Only lists a P.O. Box instead of a physical address
- Fails to provide required FMCSA booklets & brochures
- Refuses to give a written estimate
What To Do if a Mover Isn’t Licensed
- Cancel your booking & request a deposit refund
- Dispute unauthorized charges with your credit card provider
- File a complaint with the FMCSA to report the company
- Report intrastate movers to your state licensing agency
- Use our resources to find vetted, licensed movers near you
How To Choose a Top-Rated Mover
- Verify their license. Check FMCSA or state records for an active license and valid insurance coverage.
- Check reviews. Read verified customer reviews to identify trends in punctuality, care, and pricing.
- Get written estimates. Request detailed quotes from at least three similar companies for accurate price comparisons.
- Read the fine print. Watch for hidden fees, vague service terms, or unclear pricing.
- Pay attention to communication. A good moving company will stay in touch, answer your questions clearly, and never pressure you to book before you’re ready.
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Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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FAQ
Can movers lose their license, and how does that happen?
Yes, movers can lose their license if they violate FMCSA regulations, such as failing safety inspections, operating without valid insurance, or receiving too many customer complaints. In more serious cases, fraud or criminal activity can also cause a license to be revoked.
If a mover’s license is suspended or revoked, they’re not legally allowed to operate until the issues are resolved and the FMCSA reinstates their authority.
Can movers operate in multiple states with one license?
Yes. Movers with FMCSA registration can operate across state lines with a single USDOT and MC number. This federal license allows them to legally perform interstate moves throughout the U.S.
However, some states also require separate local registration if the mover performs in-state (intrastate) moves. It’s always smart to confirm they’re properly registered in both areas if your move includes local delivery services.
What’s the difference between FMCSA registration and state licensing?
FMCSA registration applies to interstate movers who cross state lines, while state licensing covers companies that only move within one state. Both are meant to ensure movers meet safety and insurance requirements.
Is it safe to hire a mover that’s new but licensed?
Yes, as long as they’re fully licensed and insured. New moving companies must still meet the same safety and insurance standards as established ones to get FMCSA approval.
It’s a good idea to double-check reviews and communication quality before booking. A new mover that’s professional, transparent, and responsive can still offer great service.
How can I tell if a moving broker is legitimate?
Legitimate moving brokers are licensed by the FMCSA and clearly listed as brokers in the database. They coordinate moves by pairing customers with licensed carriers, rather than performing moves themselves.
Are there different licensing requirements for international movers?
Yes. In addition to FMCSA registration for domestic operations, international movers must also be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to handle overseas shipments. This ensures they meet specific safety and insurance standards for ocean transport.
Some domestic movers partner with FMC-licensed international companies for these services, so make sure to ask who actually manages the international portion of your move before booking.
How do I verify a mover’s insurance coverage?
You can verify a mover’s insurance by asking for their Certificate of Insurance (COI), which lists their active coverage details and policy limits. The COI should match the company’s name and address on file with the FMCSA.
You can also confirm insurance coverage directly through the FMCSA database. This is especially useful if you want to double-check that their coverage is still valid and has not expired or been suspended.
