Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Virginia |
| Regulatory Authority | Public Service Commission (PSC) |
| License Required? | Yes – Must hold a Certificate of Convenience & Necessity to operate intrastate household goods moves |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Liability and cargo insurance must be maintained and filed with PSC |
| Tariff Required? | Yes – Movers must operate under a PSC-approved tariff with regulated rates |
| Oversize/Overweight Moves | Yes – Separate permits required from WV Department of Transportation |
| Local Permits | May be needed for restricted parking or curb use, especially in cities like Charleston or Huntington |
| Federal Compliance | USDOT number and FMCSA compliance required for interstate moves |
| Mutual Recourse | Consumers have complaint mechanisms through the PSC – State Attorney General Online Form |
Overview & Scope
In West Virginia, any company transporting household goods for compensation within state lines must be authorized by the Public Service Commission with a Certificate of Convenience & Necessity. Movers must comply with insurance, tariff, and permit regulations to ensure legal and transparent operations.
Registration & Compliance Requirements
To legally operate:
- Obtain a Certificate of Convenience & Necessity from the PSC.
- File Required Insurance – including liability and cargo coverage, as regulated.
- Operate Within Filed Tariff – all rates and charges must be approved by the PSC.
- Secure Oversize/Overweight Permits for moves exceeding standard vehicle dimensions or weight.
- Comply with City Permitting – such as temporary parking or loading permits in municipal areas.
- Meet Federal Requirements – including USDOT registration and compliance with FMCSA if transporting across state lines.
Consumer Protections
- Movers are limited to delivering final charges no more than 10% above a nonbinding estimate.
- Consumers may report violations or complaints through the PSC’s enforcement process.
- Transparent tariff pricing ensures clarity and protection from unexpected fees.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| PSC Certificate of Convenience & Necessity | Yes |
| Liability and Cargo Insurance Filed | Yes |
| Adherence to Filed Tariff | Yes |
| Oversize/Overweight Move Permits | Required if applicable |
| Local Parking/Loading Permits | Required if applicable |
| USDOT/FMCSA Compliance for Interstate Moves | Required if applicable |
| Limit Final Charge to ≤110% of Estimate | Enforced |
| Consumer Complaint Process via PSC | Provided |
Disclaimer:
This page provides a general overview of West Virginia’s intrastate household goods mover regulations. Regulations may change—please verify current licensing, insurance, and compliance requirements with the West Virginia Public Service Commission before proceeding.
Last updated: August 8, 2025