Hiring an interstate moving company is a major decision, and verifying the company’s credentials is one of the most important steps you can take before booking your move. Licensed interstate movers are required to meet federal regulations that help protect consumers, promote safety, and establish accountability throughout the moving process.
Understanding why movers should be licensed, bonded, and insured, as well as what credentials to look out for, can help you make an informed decision and avoid any unnecessary risks.
Interstate movers must meet federal licensing requirements
Verify a moving company's license and credentials before booking
DOT and MC numbers serve different purposes but are both important
Federal regulations help protect consumers during interstate moves
Be cautious of movers that cannot provide proof of licensing or other required credentials
When it comes to trusting a company to safely move your belongings into a new home, the right credentials can make all the difference. Federal licensing ensures that an interstate moving company operates within established regulations and meets specific operating requirements.
Licensed movers are also subject to consumer protection rules, safety standards, and oversight that unlicensed companies may not follow.
In addition to licensing, legitimate interstate movers like Allied maintain required registrations and offer moving valuation coverage, which helps protect your belongings in the event of loss or damage during transportation.
Interstate household movers are regulated primarily by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA establishes rules governing interstate moving companies, including operating authority, consumer protections, safety requirements, and complaint reporting.
Consumers can use FMCSA resources to research movers, verify credentials, and learn about their rights before signing a contract.
Two identifiers commonly appear when researching interstate movers: a U.S. DOT number and an MC number.
A U.S. DOT number identifies carriers operating commercial vehicles and allows regulators to monitor safety records, inspections, and compliance.
An MC (Motor Carrier) number indicates that a company has been granted operating authority to transport regulated goods across state lines.
Before hiring an interstate mover, verify its credentials using the FMCSA's online resources to ensure you’re using an FMCSA-licensed mover.
You should always confirm that:
The company name matches its registration
The company’s U.S. DOT number is active
The enterprise’s operating authority is current
Safety information is available
Contact information is consistent across official listings
Established companies like Allied openly provide their licensing information and encourage customers to verify credentials.
Federal regulations provide important protections for consumers moving across state lines.
Depending on where you move, you have rights that include receiving required information about estimates, valuation coverage options, dispute resolution procedures, and your mover's responsibilities.
You should also receive written documentation that explains the terms of your move before services start. Review these materials carefully so you understand what to expect before getting started.
While many moving companies operate professionally, it's important to recognize warning signs that could indicate a company isn't properly authorized.
Potential red flags include:
No U.S. DOT number listed on its website or estimate
Refusal to provide licensing information
Extremely low estimates
Requests for large cash deposits in advance
No physical business address
Generic rental trucks with no branding
Inconsistent company names across documents
If something feels unusual, take time to verify the company's credentials before moving forward.
Before hiring an interstate mover, make sure you've completed the following:
Verify the company's U.S. DOT number
Confirm its FMCSA operating authority
Review customer information and company details
Ask about available moving valuation coverage options
Obtain a written estimate
Review all contracts before signing
When selecting an interstate mover, choosing a trusted, reputable brand is a must. Allied has been helping customers relocate since 1928 and combines nearly a century of moving experience with a worldwide network, professional moving services for short- and long-distances alike, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. If you're planning an interstate move, request a free quote to get started.
Federal licensing requirements generally apply to movers that transport household goods across state lines. Companies that operate only within a single state are typically regulated by that state's licensing requirements.
A U.S. DOT number identifies commercial carriers for safety monitoring. Meanwhile, an MC number represents interstate operating authority that’s issued by the FMCSA for regulated transportation activities.
You can verify an interstate mover by searching its U.S. DOT number or company name using FMCSA resources. Review the company's registration status, operating authority, and other available information before booking.
Hiring an unlicensed interstate mover may expose you to unnecessary risks, including limited regulatory oversight and reduced consumer protections.
