RI · In-state moves
Rhode Island moving company rules
The Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) regulates all for-hire carriers moving property within the state, including household goods movers. A mover needs a DPUC certificate, which requires proof of fitness and of public convenience and necessity, and its rates must be in a DPUC-approved tariff. DPUC field investigators look into consumer complaints, including complaints about charges.
| In-state oversight | State license compare states |
|---|---|
| Regulator | Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, Motor Carriers Section |
| License lookup | DPUC household goods certificate (MC number) lookup Search by: Open the List of Licensed Moving Companies and look for the company name or its DPUC "MC" number. The list is not real-time, so call 401-780-2158 to confirm. |
| Business registration | Rhode Island Department of State business entity search |
Estimates
DPUC advises consumers to ask for an estimate but notes that estimates are not binding. Licensed movers bill from the time they leave their shop until they return, so travel time appears on the final bill.
Liability for loss or damage
The bill of lading must come with a DPUC "Truth in Coverage" statement offering two options for damaged goods: depreciated (actual) value, or released value with mover liability of no more than 60 cents per pound per article.
Insurance or bond
Certificated carriers must file a certificate of insurance or bond for public liability and property damage and a separate certificate of insurance or bond for cargo with DPUC.
Where to complain
Other Rhode Island rules to know
- Licensed movers must show their DPUC "MC" number in all advertisements, including online listings.
- Moving trucks must show the company name, address, phone number and DPUC MC number on the door panels.
- Tariffs approved by DPUC are dated and stamped "Approved," and an unstamped tariff is invalid; movers must keep tariffs on file for public review.
- Household goods movers are one of the few carrier types whose rates DPUC still controls.
- DPUC advises against signing blank documents and asks you to review your coverage choice on the bill of lading before the move starts.
Moving into or out of Rhode Island? A move that crosses a state line follows federal rules instead. Check an interstate mover.
Sources
- Responsibilities and Jurisdiction of the Motor Carriers Division , Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
- Moving Information , Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
- Licensed Movers (list of licensed moving companies) , Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
- Moving From One Spot in Rhode Island to Another? (in-state moving hints) , Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
- Transportation Provided by Motor Carriers of Property (815-RICR-50-05-1) , Rhode Island Department of State
- Business Entity Search , Rhode Island Department of State