WI · In-state moves
Wisconsin moving company rules
Wisconsin has no mover-specific license. A mover that hauls other people's property for pay within the state needs intrastate motor carrier operating authority from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, shown as an "LC" number, and must keep insurance on file. State law says the legislature intended to remove economic regulation of motor carriers while keeping safety rules.
| In-state oversight | State registration compare states |
|---|---|
| Regulator | Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Motor Carrier Services |
| Business registration | Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions corporate records search |
Insurance or bond
A common motor carrier of property must have an approved insurance certificate on file with WisDOT covering injuries and property damage. WisDOT may also require cargo coverage protecting the owner of transported property.
Where to complain
Other Wisconsin rules to know
- The intrastate authority certificate carries an "LC" number; ask the mover for it.
- WisDOT issues a common carrier certificate without a hearing when it finds the applicant fit, considering insurance, safety record, ability to pay damage claims and service record.
- A moving company that stores household goods may need a public warehouse keeper license from DATCP, though carriers storing goods in transit for 30 days or less are exempt.
- DATCP's moving publication covers interstate moves under federal rules; no comparable state consumer rules for in-state moves were found.
Moving into or out of Wisconsin? A move that crosses a state line follows federal rules instead. Check an interstate mover.
Sources
- Motor carrier operating authority , Wisconsin Department of Transportation
- Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 194, Motor Vehicle Transportation , Wisconsin Legislature
- Wis. Stat. § 194.23, Certificate required , Wisconsin Legislature
- Wis. Stat. § 194.41, Contract of liability for damage to person or property , Wisconsin Legislature
- Public Warehouse Keepers , Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
- Interstate Moving , Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
- File a Consumer Complaint , Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
- Search Corporate Records , Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions