Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Pennsylvania |
| Regulatory Authority | Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), Bureau of Transportation and Safety |
| License Required? | Yes – Must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience before operating intrastate |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Minimum liability coverage of $300K–$750K depending on vehicle size |
| Tariff Required? | Yes – Must file and comply with a tariff; changes require 30 days’ notice |
| USDOT / UCR Required? | Yes – USDOT number required; UCR applies if operating interstate |
| Additional Requirements | Must be weighed by a public weighmaster for moves over 40 miles; proofs of insurance must be maintained and filed; written estimates required |
| Application Fee | $350 filing fee for household goods application |
| Consumer Protections & Complaints | Unlicensed operation may result in fines up to $1,000 per complaint; complaints handled by the PUC – Info Page |
Overview & Scope
Pennsylvania classifies household goods movers as public utilities. Anyone operating intrastate moves must first obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience from the PUC and maintain compliance through insurance, tariffs, and regulatory filings.
Registration & Documentation Requirements
To operate legally:
- Submit application and fee: FILE Form 189H and pay the $350 filing fee to the PUC.
- File Insurance: Submit Form E (liability) and Form H (cargo) within 60 days; minimum required coverage is $300K–$750K depending on vehicle capacity.
- Publish and File Tariff: Include rates and service terms. Any changes require a 30-day notice before implementation.
- Publication Process: Applications are published for public comment in the Pennsylvania Bulletin; protests may trigger hearings.
- Operational Compliance:
- Shipments over 40 miles must be weighed by a public weighmaster; weight tickets attached to the bill of lading.
- Retain quarterly reports on cost overruns (more than 10% above estimate) and shipment documentation.
- Vehicles must be marked with the carrier’s name, PUC number, and city—unless exempt due to USDOT registration.
Consumer Protections
- Written estimates must be provided at least 48 hours prior to the move and must align with the filed tariff.
- Claims Process: A carrier must resolve damage or dispute claims per PUC standards.
- Enforcement Tools:
- Unlicensed operations may result in fines and liens on vehicle registrations.
- Consumers may file complaints with the PUC’s Safety & Enforcement Bureau.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| PUC Certificate of Public Convenience | Yes |
| $350 Application Fee | Required |
| Liability & Cargo Insurance Filed (Form E & H) | Required |
| Published Tariff & 30-Day Notice for Rate Changes | Required |
| Weighing by Public Weighmaster (moves >40 miles) | Required |
| Vehicle Markings (Name, PUC #) | Required (unless USDOT-exempt) |
| Written Estimates (≥48 hours in advance) | Required |
| Complaint Resolution & Enforcement via PUC | Provided |
Disclaimer:
This page offers a general overview of Pennsylvania’s intrastate household goods mover regulations. Regulations may change—please verify licensing, insurance, and compliance requirements with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission before proceeding.
Last updated: August 8, 2025