Published by Chris Townsend
In Nebraska, moving across the state isn’t just about loading boxes and hitting the road. Whether you're relocating from Lincoln to Omaha or entering the state from Iowa or Colorado, certain rules and requirements are waiting for you. Did you know that Nebraska enforces transportation regulations that are different from many neighboring states? For example, while cities like Omaha may not require residential moving permits for most local jobs, the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates who can legally transport household goods in the state. If your mover isn't properly authorized, your entire move may not be protected under state laws.
That’s where working with a licensed, compliant, and experienced moving partner becomes critical. At Three Movers, we coordinate with fully credentialed carriers who meet all Nebraska licensing requirements—so you can focus on your transition, not the paperwork. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about moving permits and licenses in Nebraska, from local city rules to long-distance and even international moving documentation.
Do You Need a Moving Permit in Nebraska?
For Local Moves (Within Cities or Counties)
Most cities in NE do not require a specific “moving permit” for local residential moves. However, that doesn’t mean you can avoid regulations altogether. Local parking rules, time-of-day restrictions, and access issues often play a role in how and when you can legally move your belongings.
For example:
- Omaha: Does not issue formal moving permits, but street obstruction permits are required if a truck will block traffic or sidewalks.
- Lincoln: Also does not mandate moving permits for residential areas, but oversized vehicles must comply with city road use rules.
- Other cities (Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney): May require you to contact public works if you're planning to park a large moving truck in a residential zone for extended periods.
💡 Tip: Even if your city doesn’t require a permit, it’s smart to contact your local police department or parking authority before your move day to avoid fines or to reserve curb space.
State-Level Licensing Requirements in NE
In Nebraska, all movers transporting household goods within state lines must be registered and approved by the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC). This is a state-level agency that ensures movers meet requirements for safety, insurance, and fair pricing.
Requirements for Carriers:
- Must have a Household Goods Certificate from the Nebraska PSC.
- Need to maintain adequate insurance coverage, including cargo insurance and liability.
- Must adhere to maximum tariff rates approved by the state.
- Required to issue a Bill of Lading before the move begins, which includes all relevant details (address, dates, fees, etc.).
If a moving company doesn’t have this certificate, they are not legally allowed to perform intrastate moves in NE.
Why This Matters for You
Hiring movers who are not certified by the PSC can put your property at risk. You may not be eligible for compensation if something gets damaged, and the state won’t step in to mediate any disputes.
At Three Movers, we only coordinate with certified, insured carriers who meet Nebraska’s standards—giving you peace of mind with every in-state move.
Permits for Long-Distance Moves to or from NE
When Moving Out of State
Once your move crosses Nebraska’s borders, it is regulated at the federal level rather than state level. The key agency here is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Long-distance movers must have:
- A valid USDOT number issued by the FMCSA
- An MC (Motor Carrier) number for interstate transport
- Proof of federal insurance filings (BMC-91 or BMC-91X)
- Adherence to FMCSA safety and labor regulations
Before you commit to a long-distance move, always verify that your carrier is federally authorized.
🛡️ Pro Tip: Ask for the mover’s USDOT number and look them up on the FMCSA website before booking. Or, better yet, work with Three Movers and let us do that legwork for you.
Do You Need a Parking Permit for Moving Trucks?
It Depends on the City
Some Nebraska cities require parking permits if you're going to obstruct traffic, especially in urban areas with limited street access.
- Omaha: Requires a “Right-of-Way” use permit for blocking sidewalks, alleys, or streets.
- Lincoln: Requests coordination with the Parking Services Division if placing a moving truck in restricted zones.
- Smaller towns: Typically more relaxed, but you should still check with local city offices or police departments to avoid a ticket.
The fines for illegal parking during a move can range from $50 to $200, depending on the severity of the obstruction and whether it's in a residential or commercial zone.
Permits for Oversized or Commercial Vehicles
If your move involves especially large trucks or equipment—like tractor trailers or multiple 26-foot box trucks—you may fall under Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) oversize vehicle regulations.
You may need:
- A Single Trip Permit from NDOT for oversized loads
- Proof of weight compliance (over 80,000 lbs gross requires a special permit)
- Routing plans that avoid restricted bridges or rural roads
Commercial moving carriers must also comply with both NDOT and FMCSA regulations if they travel across state lines.
When you move with Three Movers, we make sure our partner carriers understand these limits and acquire any oversize or trip permits in advance—so your move never gets stalled at a checkpoint.
Moving Into a Nebraska Apartment or Condo
High-rise apartments, student housing near UNL, and managed condos in Nebraska often have additional move-in requirements, such as:
- Proof of insurance from the moving company
- Time-slot reservation for move-in (usually 2-4 hours)
- Damage deposit or elevator protection fees
These rules vary greatly from one building to another, so it’s best to check with your building management 7–10 days before your move.
We help clients navigate this step by contacting the building manager beforehand and making sure the carrier meets all property-specific insurance and access requirements.
International Moves to or from Nebraska
Yes, even though Nebraska is a landlocked state, international moves still happen—especially for residents relocating due to military service, international jobs, or returning to family abroad.
For international moves, you’ll need:
- A licensed international carrier with FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) registration
- A complete inventory manifest for customs
- Valid passport and visa information
- Customs documentation and declarations for your destination country
International moving from Nebraska typically begins with a ground transport from your residence to a port city such as Chicago, Houston, or Los Angeles, where your belongings are loaded onto a container ship or aircraft.
We partner with international movers who specialize in documentation, customs clearance, and global delivery—ensuring a smooth transition, no matter the distance.
Military Moves and Government Relocations
Nebraska hosts several military bases, including Offutt Air Force Base, making it a common departure or arrival point for military families.
Military relocations require:
- Compliance with Defense Personal Property Program (DP3)
- Move dates scheduled in line with PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders
- Movers approved by the U.S. Department of Defense
If you're relocating due to a government contract or military posting, Three Movers can assist with coordinating with DOD-approved carriers, scheduling according to base availability, and managing paperwork for reimbursement or allowances.
Permits for Commercial and Office Moves
Moving a business in Nebraska? Here’s what you may need:
- Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming the building owner or landlord
- Elevator reservation or after-hours move permit (for downtown Omaha or Lincoln buildings)
- Right-of-Way permits if blocking loading zones or parking spaces
- OSHA-compliant equipment for moves involving sensitive equipment
Our team specializes in coordinating commercial relocations and ensures all moving companies we work with carry the proper permits and liability coverage for business properties.
How to Check if Your Mover is Licensed in Nebraska
To protect yourself, always verify your moving company’s credentials.
Here’s how:
- Visit the Nebraska PSC website to check for household goods carrier certification.
- Use the FMCSA’s SAFER system to search for a USDOT number and confirm active federal status.
- Ask for a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate and bill of lading.
Or, leave that to us—we only match you with verified, legally compliant carriers in Nebraska and beyond.
Permits Matter for a Safe, Legal Move
Permits and licenses aren’t just bureaucratic details—they’re your protection during a move. Whether it’s a short local shift in Lincoln or a complex international relocation, having the correct documentation means your rights, property, and peace of mind are safeguarded.
When you coordinate your move through Three Movers, you’re not just getting a truck—you’re getting experience, regulation-compliant service, and a team that knows Nebraska’s moving rules inside and out.
Reach out to use today to book your move and let our licenses carriers help you move to NE.
Key Sources
- Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC): https://psc.nebraska.gov
- Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT): https://dot.nebraska.gov
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Federal Maritime Commission (FMC): https://www.fmc.gov
- City of Omaha Permit Office: https://www.cityofomaha.org
- City of Lincoln Parking Services: https://www.lincoln.ne.gov
