Updated 2026-11-01
Starting an interstate moving company means satisfying both FMCSA's motor carrier rules and its consumer protection rules for household goods. Insurance sits in the middle of both.
1. Decide your scope
Local-only movers follow state rules. Interstate household goods carriers need a USDOT number and household goods operating authority. Brokers who arrange moves but do not operate trucks follow broker rules instead.
2. Apply for authority
Apply through FMCSA's registration system and note your docket number. Quotes move faster once you have it.
3. Line up coverage
- Auto liability with the federal liability filing
- Cargo coverage with the BMC-34 filing
- Physical damage on financed trucks
- General liability for damage inside customers' homes
- Workers compensation for your crew, as your state requires
4. Filings and process agents
The insurer files the liability and cargo certificates; a process agent company files your BOC-3.
5. Consumer paperwork
Prepare the required consumer documents, your estimate and bill of lading forms, and enroll in an arbitration program for disputes.
Underwriters reviewing a new moving authority will ask about your experience, so describe your history in the industry plainly.