Last updated Sep, 21 2025

Delaware Moving Permits & Licenses: All You Need to Know Before Moving In or Out of The First State

Moving to or from Delaware might seem easy at first glance—it’s one of the smallest states in the country with a relatively simple road network. But don’t let the size fool you. From Delaware’s strict oversize vehicle enforcement to its DMV trip permit system and city-level access restrictions, there are rules that every mover and homeowner must follow. If you’re coordinating a long-distance move or bringing a large truck into Wilmington’s narrow historic zones, there’s a good chance you’ll need special authorization or advance paperwork to stay compliant.

At Three Movers, we understand these details better than most. We work only with fully authorized and insured carriers who know how to handle state and city regulations, and we ensure every permit—whether for weight, width, or fuel tax—is in place before the first box is loaded. This guide gives you a complete breakdown of what you need to legally and successfully move into, out of, or within Delaware.

Household Goods Movers in DE: Licensing Requirements

Delaware doesn’t require a separate, state-issued “moving license” for household goods carriers operating solely within the state. However, movers must be:

Registered with the Delaware Division of Revenue and have an active business license.
Properly insured for cargo and liability coverage, with minimum federal standards often applied for larger vehicles.
Using a clearly documented Bill of Lading for every move, outlining terms, services, and conditions.
Employing drivers with a valid CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) for any trucks over 26,000 lbs gross weight.

While Delaware does not regulate intrastate carriers as closely as some other states, homeowners still have rights—and responsibilities—when hiring movers. At Three Movers, we verify all of these compliance points before coordinating your local move, giving you peace of mind.

Local Permits: Parking, Access, and Curbside Rules

Even in a small state like Delaware, local access and parking restrictions matter—especially in places like Wilmington, Dover, or Rehoboth Beach.

Wilmington

Wilmington’s older neighborhoods have narrow streets, limited curb access, and designated loading zones. If a moving truck will block traffic or parking meters, you may need a Temporary No Parking Permit through the city’s Department of Public Works. This permit allows you to reserve a section of curb for your moving truck, avoiding fines and illegal parking issues.

Dover

In Dover, any truck over a certain length or height parked in residential areas may require a city-issued special parking approval, particularly if you’re near school zones, intersections, or historical landmarks.

Coastal and Tourist Towns

In towns like Rehoboth Beach or Lewes, during peak tourist seasons, local ordinances may limit the hours during which moving trucks can operate near residential beach zones or downtown areas. Special permits or access schedules are sometimes required.

We help our clients coordinate these details, ensuring every parking zone or loading spot is reserved in advance—avoiding stress and unexpected fines on move day.

Spring Road Restrictions and Weight Limits

While Delaware doesn’t face the harsh spring thaw conditions seen in northern states, seasonal weight restrictions are occasionally enforced in rural or less-developed counties when roads become vulnerable to damage.

These temporary restrictions may:

Reduce allowable axle weight or GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating)
Ban access to specific roads for trucks over a certain size
Require rerouting of heavier trucks through state highways

Our partner carriers are always updated with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) bulletins and adjust their routes accordingly. You’ll never need to worry about your moving truck being stopped or turned away for violating seasonal weight restrictions.

Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Permits

If your move involves large equipment, modular housing components, or an unusually large moving truck or container, you may need an Oversize/Overweight Vehicle Permit issued by the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT).

You’ll need a permit if your truck or load exceeds:

Width: 8 feet 6 inches
Height: 13 feet 6 inches
Length: 40 feet (single vehicle), 60 feet (combo), or more depending on configuration
Weight: 80,000 lbs total gross weight

Permit Types:

Single Trip Permit: For one-time oversize/overweight travel, valid for a specific date and route.
Blanket Permit: For companies making frequent oversize moves within a 12-month period.
Superload Permit: Required for vehicles exceeding 120,000 lbs, 15 feet in height, or 16 feet in width.

Other Permit Considerations:

DelDOT may require a Route Survey to assess bridges, clearances, and road conditions.
Some moves may require escort vehicles or police escort, especially if the load crosses bridges or causes temporary road closures.
Travel is usually restricted to daylight hours, with no oversize movement allowed on major holidays or weekends in urban areas.

Our moving partners handle all the paperwork, timing, and routing for these permits in advance, so nothing interrupts your schedule.

Trip Permits and Fuel Tax Compliance for Out-of-State Movers

If your move involves a truck entering Delaware from another state and that truck is not registered under IRP (International Registration Plan) or IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement), a Temporary Trip Permit and/or Temporary Fuel Permit is required.

When Are These Permits Required?

The truck weighs over 26,000 lbs OR
The truck has three or more axles regardless of weight

Delaware Trip Permit:

Valid for 72 hours
Covers temporary registration for a single trip into or through the state

Delaware Fuel Use Permit:

Also valid for 72 hours
Required unless the vehicle displays IFTA credentials

We confirm with all non-resident carriers whether these permits are required and make sure they are acquired before your truck enters the state.

Interstate Moving: Federal Licensing & Regulations

If you're moving into or out of Delaware across state lines, your carrier must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

Required Credentials for Interstate Moves:

Active USDOT number
Active MC (Motor Carrier) number for household goods
FMCSA-verified insurance filings (such as BMC-91 or BOC-3)
Public safety and compliance rating

At Three Movers, every interstate move is handled by FMCSA-authorized carriers, which means you're protected by federal insurance standards and dispute resolution procedures in case something goes wrong.

International Moves from Delaware

Though Delaware doesn’t have a major international seaport, international moves are possible through regional hubs like the Port of Wilmington, Philadelphia, or Baltimore. International moves require:

Ground transport from your residence to the departure port
A licensed FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) carrier if moving by sea
Full inventory manifest, passport and visa information, and any required customs declarations
Optional services like crating, customs pre-clearance, or export wrapping

We coordinate with international shipping partners to ensure your move from Delaware to abroad is seamless, from paperwork to customs handling.

Government, Military & Commercial Moves in Delaware

If you're relocating on government orders, or coordinating a business or office move, you’ll need to consider:

Military & Federal Relocations:

Must use a DP3-compliant carrier (Defense Personal Property Program)
Must coordinate timing with PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders
Often requires extra documentation for reimbursement and allowances

Commercial & Office Moves:

May require Certificates of Insurance naming the property owner
After-hours access permits, especially for multi-tenant office buildings
City approvals for blocking sidewalks, using elevators, or reserving loading zones

Our team ensures all these details are planned in advance, keeping your timeline and compliance requirements in check.

Verifying Your Mover: What to Ask Before Booking

Before you hire a mover, make sure they can provide:

✅ Active business registration with the State of Delaware
✅ Proof of cargo and liability insurance
✅ Documentation showing DOT and/or FMCSA authority
✅ Copies of any permits required for oversize, overweight, or trip/fuel use
✅ A clear, written Bill of Lading outlining charges, timelines, and service scope

If you're working with Three Movers, you never have to ask—we do all the verification for you.

Why Permits Matter in DE

🚫 Avoid Fines and Delays- Delaware enforces moving-related violations strictly. Noncompliance can delay your move or cost hundreds in fines.

🛡 Stay Protected with Insurance- Only permitted and licensed carriers provide cargo insurance and coverage if something gets damaged.

📦 Guarantee Peace of Mind- From bridge clearances to city approvals, we handle every moving permit so you don’t have to.

Delaware Move Checklist

Step	Requirement	Who Handles It
1	Verify mover’s insurance and Delaware business license	Carrier / Three Movers
2	Secure local parking or no-parking permits (if needed)	Carrier / Three Movers
3	Check DelDOT spring weight restrictions and reroute if needed	Carrier / Three Movers
4	File for oversize/overweight permits if applicable	Carrier
5	Obtain 72-hour trip/fuel permits (for non-resident carriers)	Carrier
6	Confirm FMCSA credentials for interstate moves	Carrier / Three Movers
7	Coordinate customs paperwork for international moves	Carrier / Three Movers
8	Align move with PCS, government, or commercial scheduling	Carrier / Three Movers

Final Thoughts: Move Confidently with the Right Permits in Place

In a state as small—but carefully regulated—as Delaware, it pays to have your paperwork in order. From city parking rules to oversize vehicle restrictions and federal licensing requirements, a successful move hinges on preparation.

At Three Movers, we specialize in making your move legal, insured, and worry-free. Whether you're heading across town in Wilmington or planning an international relocation from Dover, we'll handle every step—every form, every permit, every approval.

Let your next Delaware move be smart, compliant, and completely stress-free.

Delaware Moving Permits & Licenses: All You Need to Know Before Moving In or Out of The First State