NY · In-state moves
New York moving company rules
All household goods moves that start and end within New York State are regulated by the New York State Department of Transportation, and only movers it authorizes may legally perform them. Authorized movers hold a certificate number that they must show in advertising, and they must file a tariff and proof of insurance with the department. The department takes complaints about in-state moves but cannot decide loss or damage claims.
| In-state oversight | State license compare states |
|---|---|
| Regulator | New York State Department of Transportation, Office of Modal Safety and Security |
| License lookup | NYSDOT household goods certificate of authority (NYDOT number) lookup Search by: No online search; call 518-457-6512 or email nymoving@dot.ny.gov with the mover's exact name and, if available, its NYDOT number. |
| Business registration | New York Department of State Corporation and Business Entity Database |
Estimates
Movers must give you an order for service before the move showing what you must pay at delivery. On hourly moves, if charges exceed the written probable cost by more than 25 percent, the mover must deliver on payment of the probable cost plus 25 percent; on weight-rated and binding estimate moves the limit is 10 percent. You then have 15 business days to pay the balance.
Liability for loss or damage
The mover's liability is set by the valuation statement on the bill of lading, and full value requires declaring a value or buying full replacement value protection. Movers must acknowledge a written loss or damage claim within 30 days. The department says claims should usually be filed within 90 days of delivery, and it cannot decide whether a mover owes you money.
Insurance or bond
Movers must file evidence of insurance with the Department of Transportation, which will give you the name of a mover's insurance company on written request.
Where to complain
Other New York rules to know
- Be wary of any mover that gives only a phone number and cannot give you its NYDOT certificate number.
- Ask for the department's Summary of Information booklet, which movers must give you and which explains your rights.
- If you win a court judgment against a mover and are not paid, the department says it will help you collect.
- If your move crosses a state line, even one starting or ending in New York, it falls under federal rules instead.
Moving into or out of New York? A move that crosses a state line follows federal rules instead. Check an interstate mover.
Sources
- Moving , New York State Department of Transportation
- Summary of Information for Shippers of Household Goods , New York State Department of Transportation
- Motor Carrier Complaint Form , New York State Department of Transportation
- File a Complaint , New York State Attorney General
- Corporation and Business Entity Database , New York Department of State
- Protect Your Move , Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration