Checking a moving company takes about ten minutes and is the most effective way to avoid a bad move. Here's what to look up and what it means.
1. Know who you're dealing with
| Type | What it does | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Moving company (carrier) | Owns or operates the trucks and crews that move your goods. | USDOT number and, for interstate moves, active household goods authority. For local moves, any state license. |
| Moving broker | Arranges your move with a carrier for a fee but does not move goods itself. | FMCSA broker authority. A broker must tell you it is a broker and which carrier will do the move. |
| Directory or referral site (like InstantMovers.com) | Passes your request to moving companies or partners. Does not quote, contract or move. | How it shares your information and whether it is paid by movers. See how InstantMovers works. |
2. Look up the USDOT number (interstate moves)
Every mover that carries household goods across state lines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. Ask for the number, then search it on FMCSA's Protect Your Move site. Check that:
- the company name and address match what the mover told you;
- it is authorized for household goods, not just general freight;
- its operating authority (MC number) is active, not revoked or pending;
- it is listed as a carrier if it says it will do the move, or as a broker if it is arranging it;
- it has insurance on file.
You can also see complaint history and safety information there.
3. Check state licensing (moves within a state)
Many states license movers for moves that stay inside the state. For example, California (Bureau of Household Goods and Services), Texas (TxDMV), Florida (FDACS), Illinois (Illinois Commerce Commission) and New York (NYSDOT). Rules differ by state, so check your state's regulator or attorney general's consumer protection office.
4. Get a written estimate after a survey
For interstate moves, federal rules require the mover to give you a written estimate. Movers must do a physical survey of your goods (in person or by video) when you're within 50 miles of their location or agent, unless you waive it in writing. A price given over the phone without seeing your things is a warning sign.
5. Understand your estimate
- Binding estimate: the price is fixed for the goods and services listed.
- Non-binding estimate: the final price is based on actual weight. On delivery, the mover can't require you to pay more than 110% of the estimate. Any balance is billed later.
- Binding not-to-exceed: you pay the lower of the estimate or the actual weight-based price.
6. Know your coverage
Interstate movers must offer two levels of liability. Released value is included at no extra cost but covers only 60 cents per pound per article, so a 10 lb laptop is covered for $6. Full value protection costs extra and makes the mover responsible for repairing, replacing or paying for lost or damaged items, subject to the terms. Ask for the details in writing.
7. Read the paperwork
Interstate movers must give you the FMCSA booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and information about their dispute-settlement (arbitration) program. Before signing, read the order for service and the bill of lading, and never sign blank or incomplete documents.
Sources: FMCSA Protect Your Move; 49 CFR Part 375; state regulator websites. Last reviewed November 2026.