Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | South Carolina |
| Regulatory Authority | Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS), under the Public Service Commission |
| License Required? | Yes – Movers must hold a Class E Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity. |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Must file proof of public liability and cargo insurance with ORS. |
| Tariff Required? | Yes – A tariff with rates and service terms must be filed and accessible. |
| Valuation Coverage | Yes – Standard released value must be offered; higher valuation available for additional fee. |
| Oversize/Overweight Moves | Yes – Separate permits are required from SCDOT for moves involving oversized or overweight loads. |
| USDOT / Interstate | Yes – USDOT number and UCR registration needed for interstate operations. |
| Consumer Complaints | Handled via ORS’s Motor Carrier Services and enforcement division. Phone: (803) 737-5230 |
Overview & Scope
In South Carolina, intrastate household goods carriers must be certified with the ORS as Class E motor carriers before legally operating. These carriers must maintain insurance, publish tariffs, adhere to valuation rules, and comply with permit requirements for over-sized or out-of-state moves.
Registration & Operational Requirements
Movers operating intrastate must:
- Obtain a Class E Certificate (PC&N) from the ORS.
- Submit Insurance Documentation, including liability and cargo coverage.
- File a Tariff detailing service rates, conditions, and valuation options.
- Offer Standard Valuation, with an option for additional coverage at a fee.
- Obtain SCDOT Permits for oversized or overweight household goods moves.
- Maintain USDOT and UCR Compliance, when applicable for interstate operations.
Consumer Protections
Consumers benefit from:
- Hiring licensed and insured movers, increasing accountability.
- Access to clear, filed rates outlined in public tariffs.
- Optional higher valuation protection for more accurate compensation.
- A formal complaint process via the ORS if moves are mishandled or pricing disputes arise.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| Class E Certificate (PC&N) from ORS | Yes |
| Liability & Cargo Insurance Filed | Yes |
| Filed Tariff & Rate Publication | Required |
| Valuation Options Offered | Required |
| Oversize/Overweight Move Permits | Required if applicable |
| USDOT / UCR for Interstate Moves | Required if applicable |
| Consumer Complaint Path via ORS | Provided |
Disclaimer:
This summary is intended as a general overview of South Carolina’s intrastate household goods mover requirements. Regulations may change—please verify licensing, insurance, and compliance details with the Office of Regulatory Staff before proceeding.
Last updated: August 8, 2025