Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | South Dakota |
| Regulatory Authority | None – No state-issued licensure for intrastate household movers |
| License Required? | No – Intrastate movers are not required to hold any state-specific license |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Commercial motor carriers generally should maintain liability and cargo insurance |
| Tariff Required? | Not required |
| USDOT / UCR Required? | USDOT number is required if vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs GVWR; UCR applies if operating interstate |
| Special Permits | Yes – Oversize/overweight loads, or out-of-state carriers, may require commercial trip or fuel permits |
| Consumer Complaints | South Dakota Consumer Protection Phone: 605-773-4400. |
Overview & Scope
South Dakota does not require a dedicated license for intrastate household goods movers. Instead, any commercial operation should:
- Hold a valid USDOT number if vehicles meet federal thresholds.
- Carry appropriate liability and cargo insurance.
- Provide standard moving documentation, including a Bill of Lading with transparent pricing and insurance terms.
Special Permit Requirements
While general intrastate licensing is not required, certain conditions do trigger permit obligations:
- Oversize or overweight vehicles must obtain single-trip or extended permits for operation.
- Nonresident carriers may need temporary trip and/or fuel-use permits.
- Carriers planning interstate transit must comply with federal requirements, such as USDOT authority, operating authority, and possibly UCR/IFTA.
Best Practices & Consumer Guidance
For consumer protection and professionalism, movers in South Dakota should:
- Clearly display vehicle registration and USDOT number (if applicable).
- Provide a written estimate or a detailed contract outlining services and pricing.
- Use a Bill of Lading that includes the mover’s name, USDOT number, and insurance disclosures.
- Maintain transparency on pricing and service details.
- Recommend using insured, reputable movers—especially given the lack of specific contracting oversight.
- Direct complaints or safety concerns to the South Dakota Motor Carrier Services division or local law enforcement, as appropriate.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required / Recommended |
|---|---|
| Intrastate mover license | Not required |
| USDOT number (for heavy or interstate vehicles) | Required |
| Liability & cargo insurance | Recommended |
| Bill of Lading with clear service terms | Recommended |
| Oversize / overweight permits (if applicable) | Required |
| Temporary permits for out-of-state carriers | Required if applicable |
| Consumer complaint handling via DOT or local channels | Recommended |
Disclaimer:
This page provides a general summary of intrastate household goods mover practices in South Dakota. Regulations are subject to change. Please verify licensing, insurance, and compliance obligations with South Dakota Motor Carrier Services before proceeding.
Last updated: August 8, 2025