Published by Chris Townsend
Are you planning a move to or from Kentucky and unsure about what kind of permits or licenses you might need? Do you need a permit to park a moving truck in front of your new home in Lexington? Will you need approval to move across state lines or even internationally from Louisville? These are common questions that can quickly turn into headaches if you don’t have the right answers in advance.
Moving isn’t just about boxes and furniture—it’s also about legal compliance, city rules, and making sure the moving company handling your items is properly licensed and insured. In Kentucky, moving regulations vary depending on whether you’re moving within the state, across state lines, or to another country. Knowing which permits and licenses apply to your specific situation can make a huge difference in cost, convenience, and peace of mind.
At Three Movers, we specialize in making your move simple and stress-free by ensuring that every part of your relocation—from planning to legal compliance—is taken care of. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the permits and licenses required for moving in and out of Kentucky, from local regulations to international shipping requirements.
Do You Need a Moving Permit in Kentucky?
At the state level, Kentucky does not require private individuals to obtain a general moving permit for relocating household goods. However, this doesn’t mean you're completely in the clear—local city ordinances and special circumstances may require:
- Temporary No-Parking Permits
- Oversize Vehicle Access
- Street or Lane Closures for Moving Trucks
- Permits for Portable Storage Units (PODS)
Whether you’re moving to a tight downtown area or a suburban cul-de-sac, it’s important to check with your local government office to avoid citations or delays on moving day.
Local City and County Rules
Louisville
- Temporary Parking Permits: Required for reserving curb space or blocking the street during a move.
- Right-of-Way Permits: Needed if you’re obstructing a sidewalk or public street during loading or unloading.
- PODS or Storage Units: Must be placed on private property unless you have a permit from the city’s Department of Public Works.
Lexington
- Residential Street Parking: Trucks over a certain length may not be allowed in narrow residential areas without prior approval.
- No-Parking Zone Permits: If you need to reserve parking, a permit must be requested in advance from the Lexington Traffic Engineering Division.
- HOAs and Complexes: Many residential neighborhoods and apartment complexes have their own moving policies that may include time restrictions or space limitations.
Bowling Green, Covington, Owensboro
- Smaller cities often allow street parking for short periods but may restrict large commercial trucks from certain roads. Always call the local city hall to verify whether you’ll need a permit.
Moving Within Kentucky: Intrastate Licensing Requirements
If you’re moving from one city to another within Kentucky—like from Richmond to Elizabethtown—you must use a moving company that’s registered with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
Key Requirements:
- Household Goods Carrier Certificate: Required for any company transporting household goods within the state.
- Tariff Filing: Movers must provide rates filed with the KYTC, which means pricing should be transparent.
- Proof of Insurance: All registered intrastate carriers must hold cargo liability and general liability insurance.
What It Means for You:
- You’re protected against unfair pricing or uninsured damages.
- You should receive a Bill of Lading, detailing services and fees.
- Unauthorized companies operating within Kentucky are doing so illegally.
At Three Movers, we only coordinate with carriers that hold all necessary Kentucky certifications to ensure compliance and peace of mind.
Interstate Moves from Kentucky
Planning a move from Kentucky to another state? You’ll need a moving company that holds federal operating authority.
Required Federal Licenses:
- U.S. DOT Number: This confirms the mover is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- MC (Motor Carrier) Number: Required for companies to legally transport household goods between states.
These identifiers ensure that the moving carrier follows federal safety regulations, carries proper insurance, and is authorized to operate across state lines.
✅ Quick Tip: Always ask for the mover’s DOT and MC numbers and verify them through the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
Oversize or Overweight Vehicle Permits in Kentucky
Large moving trucks or trailers may need an Oversize/Overweight (OSOW) Permit if they exceed the legal size or weight limits in Kentucky. These are issued by the Division of Motor Carriers, part of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Legal Limits Without a Permit:
- Width: 8 feet, 6 inches
- Height: 13 feet, 6 inches
- Length: 65 feet (including vehicle and trailer)
- Gross Weight: 80,000 pounds
If a moving truck exceeds these dimensions—especially during a large household or office relocation—the carrier must obtain a permit before the move.
At Three Movers, we verify that all our partnered carriers obtain the necessary OSOW permits for every route in and out of Kentucky.
International Moves from Kentucky
Moving overseas from Kentucky, whether via the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport or a freight hub in Louisville, involves more documentation than a domestic move.
Documents Typically Required:
- International Bill of Lading
- Packing List and Inventory (in English and Target Country Language)
- Customs Declaration
- Passport and Visa
- Import Permit (for destination country)
- Container Inspection (by U.S. Customs if using freight)
Many international moves originating in Kentucky are handled via major ports like Port of Charleston or Port of Savannah, requiring coordination between ground transport, air freight, or sea shipping.
Three Movers works with reliable international carriers and freight forwarders who ensure all documentation and customs regulations are handled without you having to deal with confusing forms or multiple government agencies.
Permits for Portable Storage Units
Using portable containers like PODS or U-Pack in Kentucky? You might need a placement permit if you plan to keep them in public view or on a city street.
- On Private Property: Usually doesn’t require a permit unless it blocks a sidewalk or fire lane.
- On Public Streets or Alleys: May require a temporary occupancy permit from your local city hall.
- HOA or Apartment Restrictions: Always check with property management for placement rules.
Some cities place limits on the number of days the container can remain onsite—typically between 3 to 7 days without needing an extended permit.
Special Rules for Campus and Rural Moves
College Moves (UK, WKU, etc.)
- Most campuses like University of Kentucky or Western Kentucky University have designated move-in periods and require:
- Temporary loading zone passes
- Assigned drop-off times
- Move-in helpers or volunteers
These rules are strictly enforced during fall move-ins.
Rural or Agricultural Areas
- If you're moving to a rural area with narrow bridges or gravel roads, your moving company may need alternate routing permits or use smaller trucks.
- Many county roads in Kentucky restrict large vehicle traffic during rainy seasons to preserve road integrity.
Insurance Requirements for Movers in Kentucky
All household goods carriers operating in Kentucky must carry:
- Auto Liability Insurance
- Cargo Insurance
- General Liability Insurance
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance (if applicable)
Before your move begins, you should receive a Certificate of Insurance (COI) or proof that the mover carries these protections. At Three Movers, we only coordinate moves with companies that meet these requirements, so you don’t have to chase paperwork or worry about coverage gaps.
Final Checklist for Kentucky Moving Permits & Licenses
| Permit or License | Required For | Issuing Body |
|---|---|---|
| Local Parking Permits | Truck blocking street or sidewalk | Local City Office |
| Intrastate Mover License | In-state moves | KY Transportation Cabinet |
| Interstate Licensing (DOT & MC Numbers) | Cross-state moves | FMCSA |
| Oversize/Overweight Vehicle Permit | Trucks exceeding limits | KY Division of Motor Carriers |
| Portable Storage Unit Permit | PODS on public property | City Public Works |
| Campus Moving Passes | College dorm moves | Campus Housing Office |
| International Shipping Documents | Global relocations | U.S. Customs & Freight Handlers |
Why Three Movers Makes Kentucky Moves Easier
At Three Movers, we don’t just help you find a mover—we make sure you’re working with professionals who follow every rule and regulation in Kentucky and beyond. From ensuring the truck has the right street permit in Frankfort, to helping with customs documents for your international move, we’re committed to keeping your move legal, smooth, and stress-free.
Our team:
- Verifies all licenses and permits required for your move
- Works only with insured and registered movers
- Coordinates oversized truck permits when needed
- Ensures international shipping follows customs compliance
No matter where you're headed—from the hills of Eastern Kentucky to out-of-state or overseas—you can move with confidence knowing that all your paperwork and permits are in order.
