Getting ready to move to another state? Did you know that the moving company you hire is required to carry an interstate moving license? Before you hire a moving company make sure they have the proper license.

How can you tell?

Each moving company is required to have a license from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) if they conduct interstate moves. Upon hiring a moving company they should give you this license number. If they don’t have one, then they are not legally authorized to conduct the move and you should hire someone else. 

However, there are a few exceptions. If you work with a large Van Line such as Mayflower or United, they are covered under their Van Line authority to perform interstate moves. They do not need to have a USDOT license.

And if a moving company only has a Motor Carriers license, they may have their USDOT license pending for approval. Make sure to ask and verify if this is the case. If not, you will need to find a moving company that does.

Finding a moving company that has a USDOT license also means that they are not only complying with government regulations, but that your personal belongings will at least be partially covered in case something does go wrong. How? Because all moving companies must carry a set amount of insurance if they are licensed for interstate moving. The amount of insurance available will depend on the operating authority of the mover. For example common carriers (moving companies that are open to the public for hire), must carry a minimum of $10,000 cargo insurance policy. So be sure to ask before you hire your mover.

Need to find an interstate mover? A great place to find established long distance and interstate movers is at Movingood.com. By signing up with their free service, you’ll be connected with movers in your area who want your business.