The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in California.
A verified guide sourced from California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
License type
CPUC Household Goods Carrier Permit (MTR)
Min. insurance
$750,000 liability (minimum)
Fee range
$500–$1,500+ initial
Timeline
4–12 weeks
How to get licensed
in California.
Register your business entity
File your LLC or corporation with the California Secretary of State. LLC filing fee is $70. California also has an $800 annual minimum franchise tax for LLCs — budget for this from day one.
Agency: California Secretary of State · Visit website →
Obtain a federal EIN
Apply at irs.gov/ein. Free and instant. Required before any other registrations.
Agency: IRS · Visit website →
Apply for CPUC MTR (Household Goods Carrier Permit)
California intrastate movers must obtain a Moving Permit (MTR number) from the California Public Utilities Commission. This is the primary license for movers operating within California. The application requires proof of insurance, tariff filing, and a surety bond. Apply through CPUC's online portal.
Agency: California Public Utilities Commission · Visit website →
File a surety bond
California requires household goods carriers to post a surety bond of $30,000 minimum, filed with CPUC. The bond protects customers against fraud, loss, or damage. This is separate from your insurance requirements.
Agency: CPUC
Secure required insurance
California requires a minimum of $750,000 combined single limit liability insurance for movers with vehicles 10,001-26,000 lbs GVWR. Higher limits are required for larger vehicles. Cargo insurance is also strongly recommended and often required by customers.
Agency: CPUC (insurance filing)
File your tariff with CPUC
All California movers must file a tariff — your official rate schedule — with CPUC before operating. Your tariff must be publicly available and followed consistently. CPUC audits movers for tariff compliance.
Agency: CPUC Tariff Division · Visit website →
Get your USDOT number
Required for vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR. For interstate moves, you also need MC authority from FMCSA.
Agency: FMCSA · Visit website →
Register with California EDD
If you plan to hire employees, register with the California Employment Development Department for payroll taxes. California has strict employment law requirements — consult an HR attorney before your first hire.
Agency: California EDD · Visit website →
What makes California unique.
California has the most complex and heavily regulated moving industry environment in the US. The CPUC actively investigates and prosecutes unlicensed movers. Operating without an MTR number is a serious violation with significant fines.
California's $800 annual LLC minimum franchise tax applies regardless of revenue — budget for this before your first job.
The CPUC Moving Guidelines (available at cpuc.ca.gov) must be provided to every customer before a move. Failure to provide these is a violation.
California requires movers to give customers a "Not to Exceed" price on binding estimates. Once a binding estimate is given, you cannot charge more than that amount unless the customer requests additional services in writing.
Los Angeles and the Bay Area are two of the most competitive moving markets in the country. San Diego, Sacramento, and the Central Valley offer better opportunities for new operators with less established competition.
California's AB5 gig worker law affects how you can classify labor. Using independent contractors as movers carries significant legal risk in California. Consult an employment attorney before structuring your workforce.
California moving company
questions answered.
What license do I need to start a moving company in California?
California intrastate movers must obtain a Moving Permit (MTR number) from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This is in addition to your federal USDOT number (required for vehicles over 10,001 lbs) and any local business licenses. Operating without an MTR is illegal and carries substantial fines.
How much does it cost to get a moving company license in California?
Budget $500-$1,500+ for CPUC fees, plus $30,000 surety bond (typically $300-$600/year in premiums), insurance (variable but significant — $750K+ liability minimums), $70 LLC filing, and California's $800 annual franchise tax. California is the most expensive state to license a moving company.
What is a surety bond and do California movers need one?
A surety bond is a financial guarantee that protects your customers if you fail to perform or cause harm. California requires movers to post a $30,000 surety bond with CPUC. You don't pay $30,000 — you pay an annual premium (typically 1-2% of the bond amount) to a bonding company that backs it.
Can I use independent contractors as movers in California?
This is a high-risk area in California. AB5 (effective 2020) significantly restricted the use of independent contractors. Most moving labor in California should be classified as W-2 employees. Using 1099 contractors as your moving crew exposes you to significant labor law liability. Consult an employment attorney before structuring your workforce.
How long does it take to get a California mover's permit?
The CPUC MTR application process typically takes 4-12 weeks from submission to approval, assuming your application is complete. Common delays include incomplete insurance filings, surety bond issues, or tariff deficiencies. Have all documents ready before submitting.
What are the best markets for new movers in California?
Los Angeles and San Francisco are highly competitive with established players. Sacramento, San Diego, and Riverside/San Bernardino (Inland Empire) have strong demand with more room for new operators. The Central Valley (Fresno, Bakersfield) is significantly underserved and growing.
Licensed in California?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in California can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.