Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Massachusetts |
| Regulatory Authority | Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU), Transportation Oversight Division |
| License Required? | Yes – Intrastate Household Goods Mover License (DPU operating authority) |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Minimum cargo insurance must be filed with the DPU |
| Tariff Required? | Yes – Rates and charges must be filed and publicly accessible |
| USDOT Number Required? | Yes – For vehicles over 10,001 lbs, even for intrastate moves |
| Application Fee | $100 application fee, plus $40 per vehicle decal, $100 per tariff filing |
| Consumer Complaints | Handled by the DPU Transportation Oversight Division Online Form |
Overview & Scope
All companies that move household goods within the state must obtain intrastate operating authority from the Massachusetts DPU. This includes moving services using vehicles for packing, transporting, and unloading household items.
Registration & Documentation Requirements
To operate legally in Massachusetts as a household goods mover:
- Submit Application — includes business documentation, balance sheet, and completed application form.
- Pay Fees —
- $100 application fee
- $40 per vehicle decal
- $100 per tariff submission
- File Required Documents —
- Proof of business registration
- Certificate of insurance
- Detailed tariff to be filed and updated when rates change
- Obtain a Public Hearing — applications are reviewed at hearings, and the principal owner must attend.
- Annual Renewal — Update proof of insurance and renewal decal; also required when tariffs change.
Insurance & Tariff Requirements
- Cargo Insurance must meet the state’s minimum coverage and stay active throughout the permit period.
- Tariffs must detail rates and services; movers may only charge what’s filed. Tariffs must be accessible to the public.
Consumer Protections
Massachusetts law ensures transparent and fair moving practices:
- Movers must conduct written, in-home estimates; verbal quotes are non-binding.
- A Bill of Lading must be provided before loading.
- Complaints regarding rates, service, or damage can be filed with the DPU’s Transportation Oversight Division.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| DPU Household Goods Mover License | Yes |
| Application & Required Fees | Yes |
| Insurance Filed with DPU | Yes |
| Tariff Filed and Publicly Available | Yes |
| USDOT Number for Heavy Vehicles | Yes |
| Written Estimates & Bill of Lading | Yes |
| Complaint Process via DPU | Provided |
Disclaimer:
The information on this page is intended as a general summary of state requirements for household goods movers. Rules and regulations may change. Please consult the Massachusetts DPU to confirm current licensing, insurance, and compliance obligations before making decisions.
Last updated: August 8, 2025