The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in Alabama.
A verified guide sourced from Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC).
License type
APSC Household Goods Carrier Certificate
Min. insurance
$300,000 liability
Fee range
$100-$400 initial
Timeline
3-6 weeks
How to get licensed
in Alabama.
Form your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Alabama Secretary of State. An LLC is the recommended structure for moving companies — it protects your personal assets. Research your state’s filing fee and processing time at the Secretary of State website.
Agency: Alabama Secretary of State
Obtain your federal EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS at irs.gov/ein. Free, instant, and required before any other registrations or opening a business bank account.
Agency: IRS · Visit website →
Get your USDOT number
Required for any company with vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR or operating interstate. Register at FMCSA.dot.gov. Interstate movers also need MC authority from the same portal.
Agency: FMCSA · Visit website →
Apply for Alabama household goods carrier operating authority
Contact Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) to apply for your intrastate operating authority. The application requires proof of insurance, a fitness review, and applicable fees. Timeline is typically 3-6 weeks.
Agency: Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) · Visit website →
Secure commercial insurance
You need commercial auto insurance for all moving vehicles, general liability insurance, and cargo insurance. File proof of coverage with the regulatory agency. Alabama requires a minimum of $300,000 liability.
Agency: Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) (insurance filing)
Obtain local business license
Most cities and counties in Alabama require a local business license or registration. Contact your local government for specific requirements and fees in your area.
Agency: Local city or county government
What makes Alabama unique.
The Alabama Public Service Commission regulates intrastate household goods carriers. Alabama requires carriers to pass a "fit, willing, and able" test — movers must demonstrate financial stability and operational capability.
Birmingham, Huntsville, and Montgomery are the three major markets. Huntsville has seen explosive growth driven by NASA/aerospace and defense industry expansion — it's one of the most underestimated emerging markets in the Southeast.
Alabama movers can often skip a public hearing requirement if they can demonstrate they are financially and operationally fit. Having clean financial statements and proof of insurance ready accelerates the process.
Alabama moving company
questions answered.
What is the APSC "fit, willing, and able" test for Alabama movers?
Alabama's APSC requires household goods carrier applicants to demonstrate they are "fit, willing, and able" to perform moving services. This means showing financial stability (clean financial statements), operational capability (appropriate vehicles and equipment), and a commitment to compliance. Carriers who meet this standard may be able to avoid a formal public hearing.
Is Huntsville, Alabama a good market for movers?
Huntsville is one of the most underrated moving markets in the Southeast. NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, and a booming tech/defense corridor have driven massive population growth. Demand is high and competition is lower than Birmingham.
Do Alabama movers need a surety bond?
Alabama does not have a universal state-level bond requirement, but professional bonds are industry standard. Many customers and commercial clients require proof of bonding before booking.
Explore other states:
Licensed in Alabama?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in Alabama can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.