How to verify if a professional moving company is licensed and insured

To verify if a professional moving company is licensed and insured, follow these key steps:

1. Check for Proper Licensing Numbers

Licensed moving companies should display their license numbers on their website and trucks. Look for:

• USDOT Number: Required for interstate (cross-state) moves

• State License Number: Required for local/intrastate moves within a single state

• MC (Motor Carrier) Number: Additional registration number

If they don’t provide these numbers, ask directly for them.

2. Verify Interstate Movers via FMCSA

For moves crossing state lines (interstate), use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) database:

Steps to Verify:

1. Go to FMCSA’s Mover Search Tool: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/search-mover

2. Or use the FMCSA SAFER System: Search by USDOT number or company name

3. Enter the DOT number and click on the moving company’s name

4. Check the results for:

   • Contact details

   • Safety rating

   • Fleet size

5. Under “Licensing and Insurance”, click to confirm insurance requirements and authority status

6. Verify the carrier status is listed as “Authorized for household goods“

The FMCSA database provides information about credentials and safety records.

3. Verify Local Movers via State Agencies

For moves within the same state (intrastate):

• Contact your state’s Department of Transportation

• Check with your state’s consumer protection agency

• Many states have online databases to verify license status

Example: California

• Visit the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS): https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/

• Navigate to “Consumer Information” → “Licensed Movers Search”

• Enter company name or license number

• Review results for active license status

4. Request Proof of Insurance

Ask the moving company to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI). Review for:

• Cargo insurance: Covers your belongings during transit

• General liability insurance: Covers property damage

• Active coverage dates and coverage limits

Don’t hesitate to contact their insurance provider directly using information on the certificate to confirm active status and coverage limits.

5. Check Insurance Requirements via FMCSA

To view detailed insurance information:

1. Under “View Details” in FMCSA search, click “HTML“

2. View authority status (broker, contract, or common)

3. Check insurance requirements and whether they meet them

6. Verify Through Additional Sources

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

• Check registration with BBB

• Review business rating and complaint history

Online Reviews

• Check Google, Yelp, Facebook, HomeAdvisor, and Angie’s List

• Look for customer testimonials and ratings

Moving Association Affiliations

• Check if affiliated with moving associations for extensive agent networks

7. Match Information

Verify that the information the company gave you matches official records:

• DOT/MC numbers match

• License status is active

• Contact details align with public records

Red Flags to Avoid

• Company refuses to provide license numbers

• No USDOT number for interstate moves

• License status shows as inactive or expired

• Negative BBB rating or multiple unresolved complaints

• Insurance certificate appears outdated or has low coverage limits

Quick Checklist Before Hiring

By completing these verification steps, you ensure you’re hiring a legitimate, professional mover who will protect your belongings and comply with legal requirements throughout your move.