Published by Chris Townsend
Relocating to or within California isn't just about hiring a moving truck and loading your belongings. California, being the most populous state with over 39 million residents and one of the busiest moving destinations in the country, has put firm laws in place to protect consumers and regulate movers. Whether you're an individual relocating across the street or a business planning to offer moving services, understanding the state’s licensing rules is essential. California law requires all moving companies, even small local operators, to obtain specific permits before operating. This guide will walk you through all the necessary permits and licenses at the city, state, and federal levels, along with penalties for skipping these steps.
California requires every household goods carrier to register with the state and comply with specific insurance, pricing, and documentation standards. These requirements change depending on the type of move—local, statewide, interstate, or international.
State-Level Requirements: California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)
CPUC Moving Permit (T Number)
To operate as a moving company within California, businesses must obtain a Household Goods Carrier Permit (also called a "T number") from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This license confirms that the company meets the standards set by state law for operating legally and ethically.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Operating without a CPUC permit can result in fines of up to $5,000 per violation, per day. Repeat offenses can lead to criminal charges and permanent disqualification.
Proof of Insurance and Tariff Filing
Movers must provide proof of liability and cargo insurance to the CPUC. They are also required to submit a "Max 4 Tariff"—a standard format of pricing for services, fees, and charges.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Failure to file proper insurance or tariffs can lead to citations and administrative fines ranging from $500 to $2,500 per violation.
Federal-Level Requirements: Interstate and International Moves
USDOT and MC Numbers
Any moving company that performs interstate moves must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes having a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and a Motor Carrier (MC) number.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Companies operating across state lines without the proper FMCSA registration may face fines of up to $28,000 and could be immediately shut down.
FMC Registration for International Moves
Movers offering international services must comply with regulations from the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and acquire the appropriate Freight Forwarder or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) licenses.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Failure to register with FMC can lead to penalties exceeding $10,000 per shipment and a ban on international operations.
Local-Level Requirements: City and County Regulations
Many California cities and counties have their own rules for moving companies, particularly for oversized loads, parking, and public road use.
Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, moving companies often require a temporary parking permit for loading and unloading in residential areas. These are typically issued by the city’s Department of Transportation.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Not having the required temporary permits can result in citations ranging from $100 to $500 and potential towing of the vehicle.
San Francisco
In San Francisco, the SFMTA (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) requires moving vehicles to obtain temporary curb permits for use in restricted zones.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Companies that skip this step may be fined up to $1,000 per violation and could have their equipment cited or removed.
Vehicle and Driver Requirements
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Drivers handling commercial moving vehicles must have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) appropriate for the size and weight of the vehicle.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Driving without a CDL can result in personal fines between $500 and $2,500 and possible suspension of the moving company’s operations.
California Vehicle Registration and Oversize Permits
All commercial moving vehicles must be registered in California. If the load exceeds legal weight or size limits, operators must apply for oversize load permits from Caltrans.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Operating an unpermitted vehicle or oversize load can incur fines of $1,000 or more, and repeat violations may result in impounding.
Compliance and Enforcement
The CPUC and FMCSA conduct regular audits and inspections of moving companies. Operating without the necessary licenses, failing to maintain records, or using unlicensed drivers may lead to penalties, suspension, or even criminal prosecution. Vehicles can be impounded, and business operations can be legally shut down. In severe cases involving fraud or repeated offenses, company owners may face misdemeanor or felony charges under California law. Penalties may also include:
- Administrative fines from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation
- Daily accruing penalties for each day the violation continues
- Revocation of operating authority
- Court injunctions preventing further business activity
Consumers can confirm a mover’s status through the CPUC’s website or the FMCSA's registration database.
Partnering with Three Movers
At Three Movers, we follow every rule and requirement set by the state of California and federal agencies. Our team holds all the necessary licenses, permits, and insurance to ensure every move we handle is safe, legal, and smooth from start to finish. Whether it's a local move in Los Angeles or an international relocation from California to abroad, we handle the compliance so you don’t have to.
Moving in California comes with clear legal responsibilities for movers and business owners. With heavy penalties for violations and strict enforcement by both state and federal agencies, staying licensed and compliant is not optional. Trust a company that takes your move—and the law—seriously. Three Movers is here to make your move worry-free and fully compliant, every step of the way.
Reach out to us now at (888) 202-0036 to plan your move within or outside California.
