The route decides which rules apply, not the distance. A move from one state into another is interstate even if it is only a few miles, and federal rules govern it. A move that starts and ends in the same state, and stays inside that state, follows that state's law.
What federal law covers
Federal motor carrier jurisdiction covers transportation between a place in one state and a place in another state, and between two places in the same state when the route passes through another state (49 U.S.C. 13501). FMCSA uses the same test when it decides who needs a USDOT number: trade or transportation between a place in a state and a place outside it, or between two places in a state through another state or a place outside the United States (FMCSA).
| Your move | Rules | Where to check the mover |
|---|---|---|
| Starts and ends in one state, never leaves it | State law | Your state page |
| Starts in one state, ends in another | Federal law (FMCSA) | FMCSA mover search |
| Starts and ends in one state, but the route crosses another | Federal law (FMCSA) | FMCSA mover search |
What changes on an interstate move
Interstate movers must register with the federal government and hold a USDOT number (FMCSA). Federal consumer rules in 49 CFR Part 375 then apply to the job. They include:
- a written estimate that says whether it is binding or non-binding (estimates guide);
- a choice between full value protection and released value (liability guide);
- a limit on what the mover can demand before unloading (delivery payment guide);
- two federal publications, Ready to Move? and Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move, which the mover must give you with the written estimate (49 CFR 375.213).
What changes on an in-state move
Each state may have its own rules for moves within the state, and FMCSA suggests checking with your state, county or local consumer affairs agency (FMCSA, Liability & Protection). States differ widely. Some license movers and set estimate and liability rules; others have no rule written for movers at all. For a problem on an in-state move, the FTC says to contact your state enforcement agency rather than the federal government (FTC).
Questions to settle before you book
- Does the route leave the state at any point, even briefly?
- If it does, does the mover hold a USDOT number and appear in the FMCSA database as a carrier?
- If it does not, does your state require a license or registration, and does the mover hold it?
Sources
- 49 U.S.C. 13501, general jurisdiction , U.S. Government Publishing Office
- Do I Need a USDOT Number? , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Search for a Registered Mover , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Mover search tool (search by company) , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- 49 CFR Part 375, Transportation of Household Goods in Interstate Commerce , Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
- 49 CFR 375.213, information for prospective shippers , Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
- Ready to Move? (brochure, PDF) , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move (booklet, PDF) , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Liability & Protection , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Avoid scams when you hire a moving company , Federal Trade Commission