Yes – Household Mover Permit (Cal‑T number) is mandatory for intrastate moves
Insurance Required?
Yes – Liability, cargo, and workers’ compensation (if employees)
Tariff Filing Required?
Yes – Must follow Maximum Rate Tariff 4 (Max 4) for intrastate moves
Complaint Contact
BHGS Consumer Intake Unit: (800) 366‑4782; Online form via CA.gov
Overview & Scope
Anyone involved in intrastate household goods moves (including packing, brokering, or transporting) must obtain a permit from BHGS before operating in California. This applies even to restoration companies or pod delivery services, except under limited exemptions.
Permit & Registration Requirements
Application + $500 fee, submitted to BHGS within 120 days of filing.
Fingerprinting (Live Scan) required for all owners/officers to allow criminal background checks.
Must pass a written exam covering Max 4 tariff rules with a minimum score of 70%.
Employers must comply with the Pull Notice Program and safety/maintenance regulations.
CA Carrier Number issued by CHP must be provided.
Insurance Obligations
Liability: $250,000 (per person), $500,000 (per incident), $100,000 (property) or a combined single limit of $600,000.
Cargo Insurance: Minimum $20,000 per shipment.
Workers’ Compensation: Required if employing staff.
C.O.D. Bond: $2,000 surety bond if handling collect-on-delivery shipments.
Tariffs & Reporting
Must use Maximum Rate Tariff 4 (Max 4) for all intrastate moves.
Permits require quarterly revenue reporting, a $15 safety fee, and a uniform business tax based on revenue.
Consumer Protections
Movers must conduct a visual inspection before providing an estimate.
A “Not to Exceed” price must be provided; change orders are required for additional services.
A service agreement and the state’s informational booklet must be provided prior to the move.
Claims must be filed in writing within 9 months of delivery.
Unpermitted movers may be penalized, and their vehicles impounded.
