How To Verify a Mover’s License And Insurance

Trust but verify. This old saying couldn’t be more true, especially when you’re handing over all your belongings to a moving company.

Whether you're relocating across town or crossing state lines, it’s not just about who can lift boxes; it’s about who you can trust with your life’s possessions. And that trust starts when you verify the mover’s license and insurance.

Not all movers are created equal, and unfortunately, the moving industry has seen a surge in scams and unlicensed operators. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 7,000 consumer complaints were filed against moving companies in just one year.

That’s why knowing how to verify a mover’s license and understanding how to check mover insurance coverage is essential. It protects you from financial risk and emotional stress. In the U.S., any company that handles interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA, and it should have an active USDOT number.

So if you're planning a move and wondering where to begin, keep reading. We’ll break it all down step-by-step. We'll show you exactly how to check the USDOT number for the mover, verify the moving company's liability insurance, and request the mover's certificate of insurance before you hand over a single box.

Why It’s Crucial to Verify a Mover’s License and Insurance

Hiring a moving company without verifying their license and insurance is like handing your car keys to a stranger and hoping for the best. That’s why taking the time to verify the mover's license and insurance is essential.

Here’s why it matters:

It protects you from fraud

Unfortunately, rogue movers are more common than you might think. Some operate without proper licenses, while others disappear with deposits or even hold belongings hostage. When you verify a mover’s license, you ensure the company is legally registered and accountable under state or federal regulations.

It confirms you’re dealing with a legitimate business

Licensed movers are required to follow specific rules and standards. For interstate movers, this includes registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and an active USDOT number.

It gives you financial protection in case of damage or loss

Even the most professional movers can have accidents. If your items get damaged, lost, or stolen during the move, proper insurance is the only thing that stands between you and a big financial hit. That’s why it’s important to check mover insurance coverage before hiring.

It ensures you're covered legally

If someone gets injured during your move, you could be held responsible if the company doesn’t have the right insurance. That’s why it's important to verify moving company liability insurance and make sure they have valid workers’ compensation coverage as well.

It shows the company is transparent and professional

A trustworthy mover will have no problem providing documentation. You should always feel comfortable to request mover certificate of insurance or ask how to confirm mover licensing and insurance.

Understanding Moving Company Licensing

Licensing isn’t just paperwork; it’s a sign that the mover meets legal standards, follows safety rules, and is properly registered to operate. When you take the time to verify mover license and insurance, you're making sure the company is both trustworthy and legally compliant.

Let’s break this down further.

Local vs. Interstate Movers

There’s a big difference between movers that operate within a single state and those that move people across state lines.

• Local movers are companies that handle moves within a single state. These movers are regulated by state agencies, and each state has its own licensing rules.
  For example, in California, local movers must be licensed with the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS), while in Texas, it’s the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV).

So if you're planning a local move, make sure you check with your state’s transportation or consumer affairs department to verify local mover insurance and licensing.

• Interstate movers, on the other hand, are companies that move your belongings from one state to another. These movers are regulated at the federal level by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

To be legally allowed to perform interstate moves, these companies must have:

• A valid USDOT number
• An MC (Motor Carrier) number
• Registered proof of insurance with the FMCSA

You can use the FMCSA mover license lookup tool online to confirm all of this.

Required Licenses for Movers

So, what exactly should a licensed mover have?

For interstate movers, they must have:

• A USDOT number– This is their unique ID with the Department of Transportation. You can check the USDOT number for the mover on the FMCSA website.
• An MC number– Required for transporting goods between states.
• Proof of insurance – More on that in the next section, but yes, it must be on file with
• FMCSA.

For local movers, requirements vary but usually include:

• A state-issued operating license (varies by state)
• Proof of liability and cargo insurance
• Vehicle registration and compliance with state moving regulations

Regardless of whether the move is local or cross-country, always ask the company directly to share their license details. And don’t just take their word for it, go ahead and verify the mover's license and insurance yourself using online databases or official sources.

How to Verify a Mover’s License

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, this process is your best protection against scams, damages, and shady operators.

Step 1: Ask for their DOT and MC numbers

Start by asking the moving company for their official credentials. For interstate moves, they should provide two key numbers:

• USDOT number (U.S. Department of Transportation ID)
• MC number (Motor Carrier number, assigned by FMCSA)

If a company can’t or won’t give you these, that’s a red flag. Legitimate companies will have no problem sharing this information because it proves they're federally registered.

Step 2: Use the FMCSA’s official lookup tool

Once you have their DOT and/or MC number, head over to the FMCSA mover license lookup page at https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/.

It’s a free and easy-to-use government database.

Here's what to do:

1. Enter the company’s name, USDOT number, or MC number
2. Click “Search”
3. Review the details listed in their profile

Look for:

• Operating status— It should say “Authorized for HHG” (Household Goods)
• Insurance info— Make sure it’s active
• Complaint history— Scroll to see if they’ve had any serious issues
• Business name match

This is how you check the USDOT number for the mover and verify their standing at the federal level. It takes just a few minutes.

Step 3: Verify state-level licensing (for local movers)

If you're doing a local move (within the same state), the mover might not need a federal license. Instead, they'll need to be registered at the state level.

To check local mover insurance and licensing:

• Visit your state’s Department of Transportation, Consumer Affairs, or Public Utilities Commission website
• Look for a license verification tool or contact page
• Ask for proof of a state license if you're unsure

Every state has slightly different rules, but the mover should still be able to prove they’re licensed to operate in your area.

Step 4: Request physical proof of licensing

Even after using online tools, it’s smart to ask the mover directly for:

• A copy of their operating license
• A copy of their Certificate of Insurance
• Any state registration documents they hold

Step 5: Match all documents to the business name and address

Scam movers often operate under multiple names or hide behind shell companies. When you request a mover certificate of insurance or licensing documents, check that:

• The business name on the documents matches the one you’re hiring
• The address listed is real and operational
• The insurance coverage is active and current

Step 6: Review customer complaints and red flags

Lastly, do a quick background check:

• Google their name and look for reviews
• Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings
• See if they've been reported for fraud

If you find a pattern of complaints, unresolved claims, or bad customer experiences, it’s best to look elsewhere.

What You’re Verifying

Types of Insurance Movers Should Have

Insurance isn't just a formality; it's your backup plan if something goes wrong during the move. Even licensed movers can have accidents, which is why it’s important to check a mover’s insurance coverage before signing anything.

Here are the main types of insurance your mover should have:

Liability Insurance

This covers damage to your property during the move, like scratched floors or broken stair railings. Always verify the moving company's liability insurance to ensure you’re not paying out-of-pocket for their mistakes.

Cargo Insurance

This protects your belongings while they’re in the truck. If there’s an accident or theft during transit, cargo insurance steps in. Verify cargo insurance for movers, especially if you're transporting high-value items.

Workers’ Compensation

This protects you if a mover gets injured on your property. Without it, you could be held liable for medical bills.

Released Value Protection (Basic Coverage)

This is often included for free, but it only pays about 60 cents per pound per item. That means a 100-pound sofa is worth just $60 under this coverage.

Full Value Protection (Upgraded Coverage)

This optional add-on covers the full value of your items. It costs more but offers real protection. Always request the mover's certificate of insurance and ask what’s included before choosing a plan.

How to Verify a Mover’s Insurance

You've asked about insurance coverage, and the mover says, "Yeah, we're covered." But don't stop there, verify that insurance.

Here’s how to do it the right way:

Step 1: Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI)

Start by politely asking the moving company to provide their Certificate of Insurance. This is a one-page document that outlines their active policies, including:

• Coverage types (liability, cargo, etc.)
• Coverage limits
• Insurance company name
• Policy numbers
• Expiration dates

Make sure to request the mover's certificate of insurance before booking.

Step 2: Review the Certificate Carefully

Once you have the COI in hand (digitally or printed), here’s what to check:

• Business name matches the mover you’re hiring
• Coverage is currently active
• Liability and cargo insurance are both included
• Policy limits are reasonable (ask if unsure)

Step 3: Confirm the Insurance Directly

If you want to be 100% sure the policy is valid, you can call the insurance company listed on the certificate and confirm the policy is active. Just say you're verifying coverage for a moving service you plan to hire. It's a standard request.

Step 4: Ask What the Insurance Actually Covers

Not all coverage is equal, so ask the mover to explain:

• Does the insurance cover the full value or only part of it?
• Are there limits per item?
• Is high-value item coverage included?

Step 5: Keep a Copy for Your Records

Once everything checks out, save a digital or printed copy of the insurance documents with your move folder. That way, if something does go wrong, you know exactly who to contact and what coverage you have.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Not every moving company is what it claims to be. In fact, many complaints to the FMCSA each year involve movers who seemed fine at first but turned into a nightmare once the move began.

That’s why knowing the red flags can save you from headaches, stress, and financial loss.

No Proof of License or Insurance

If a mover can't provide documentation to verify the mover's license and insurance, walk away. You should always be able to request a mover's certificate of insurance and check their USDOT number or state license online.

Unrealistically Low Quotes

Extremely cheap estimates often lead to hidden charges later. It’s a tactic used by rogue movers. Always compare quotes and hire the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Large Cash Deposits Upfront

If you're asked to pay a big deposit, especially in cash, that's a red flag. Reputable movers usually request payment after delivery or require only a small deposit.

No Inspection Before Quoting

Legit movers will offer an in-person or virtual walkthrough before giving a final quote. If they skip this step, it shows a lack of professionalism.

Vague Business Info

Be cautious if the company has no website, no clear address, or uses multiple names. These are signs of a mover trying to avoid accountability. Use this moment to confirm mover licensing and insurance with official sources.

What to Do If the Mover Isn’t Licensed or Insured

So you've done your homework, asked the right questions, and maybe even tried to verify mover license and insurance, but something just doesn’t add up.

Maybe the mover can’t provide a valid USDOT number, or you can’t find them in the FMCSA database. Or perhaps their Certificate of Insurance seems vague or incomplete.

Walk away before signing anything

If the mover isn’t properly licensed or insured, the best thing you can do is not hire them. Even if the price is tempting or you’re in a rush, it’s just not worth the risk.

Re-check your sources

Sometimes, it's just a misunderstanding. Double-check that you spelled the company name correctly when trying to confirm mover licensing and insurance online. Use the FMCSA mover license lookup for interstate movers or your state’s verification site for local ones.

Ask for clarification

It’s okay to ask the company for a second look at their documents. Maybe they sent the wrong version or forgot to include a detail. But if they dodge questions or avoid giving straight answers, that’s a red flag.

Report the company if needed

If a mover is actively trying to do business without the proper license or insurance, you can file a complaint with:

• The FMCSA (for interstate moves)
• Your state’s Department of Transportation or Consumer Affairs (for local moves)

The Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Recommended Resources

• Local vs Long Distance Moves

• How To Choose The Best Movers

• How to Settle In Quickly After a Move

• A Day in the Life of a Professional Mover