Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Maryland |
| Authority | Maryland Department of Labor, Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing |
| License Required? | Registration as a Household Goods Mover is required (effective Oct 1, 2019). |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Liability and cargo insurance per federal standards (49 CFR § 387.303). |
| Tariff Required? | Not required at state level. |
| USDOT / UCR | USDOT number required for interstate operations; not tracked at state level. |
| Application Fee | $325 initial; $325 annual renewal; $75 late fee. |
| Consumer Complaints | Handled by the Department of Labor’s registration unit and enforcement staff. Online Form |
Overview & Scope
As of October 1, 2019, Maryland regulation requires that anyone providing household goods moving services using commercial motor vehicles must be registered with the Department of Labor before operating within the state.
Activities covered include:
- Loading, packing, transporting, storing (in transit), unloading household goods for a fee.
Failure to register may lead to penalties up to $5,000 per violation.
Registration Requirements
To become compliant:
- Submit Application with:
- Applicant’s name and trade names
- Business name and FEIN
- Resident agent (if applicable)
- DOT number (if available)
- Insurance policy details
- Workers’ compensation proof
- Certificate of good standing with state taxing authority
- Display Registration Number on all trucks, estimates, and advertisements.
- Maintain coverage and update information, including changes in ownership or location.
Registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Late renewals incur additional fees.
Consumer Protections
- Written Estimates Required: Must include line items for each service and clearly indicate binding or nonbinding status. Nonbinding estimates cannot exceed 125% of the estimated total unless excess charges apply.
- Prohibition on Carrier’s Liens: Movers are prohibited from enforcing liens or refusing delivery for unpaid charges.
- Written Receipt upon Completion: Must include mover’s legal name and contact information (resident agent or main office).
- Penalties for Violations: Civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation for noncompliance.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required? |
|---|---|
| State Registration (Household Goods) | Yes |
| Insurance (Liability & Cargo) | Yes |
| Display Registration Number | Yes |
| Written Estimates | Yes |
| Prohibition on Carrier’s Liens | Enforced |
| Written Receipt upon Delivery | Yes |
| Annual Renewal + Fees | Yes |
Disclaimer:
The information on this page is intended as a general summary of state requirements for household goods movers. Rules and regulations may change. Please consult the appropriate state regulatory agency to confirm current licensing, insurance, and compliance obligations before making decisions.
Last updated: August 8, 2025