IA · In-state moves
Iowa moving company rules
Movers of household goods for pay within Iowa need a motor carrier permit from the Iowa Department of Transportation under Iowa Code chapter 325A. A household goods carrier may not operate until the department has approved its tariff of rates and charges. The department also sets insurance and safety rules for these carriers.
| In-state oversight | State license compare states |
|---|---|
| Regulator | Iowa Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division (Motor Carrier Services) |
| Business registration | Iowa Secretary of State business entities search |
Insurance or bond
Carriers must carry at least the federal minimum insurance in 49 CFR part 387 and keep a current certificate of insurance or surety bond on file with the department, with 30 days' notice before cancellation.
Where to complain
Other Iowa rules to know
- Ads for for-hire moving must include the mover's Iowa permit number.
- A mover's charges must be just, reasonable, and match its approved tariff; tariff changes generally need 30 days' notice to the department and the public.
- Movers must keep their tariffs at their main place of business, available for public inspection.
- Cities and counties may not regulate motor carriers more strictly than state law.
Moving into or out of Iowa? A move that crosses a state line follows federal rules instead. Check an interstate mover.
Sources
- Iowa Code chapter 325A, Motor Carrier Authority , Iowa Legislature
- 761 IAC chapter 524, For-Hire Intrastate Motor Carrier Authority , Iowa Legislature
- Motor Carriers , Iowa Department of Transportation
- File a Consumer Complaint , Iowa Attorney General
- Business Entities Search , Iowa Secretary of State