The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in Hawaii.
A verified guide sourced from Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
License type
Hawaii PUC Household Goods Carrier Certificate
Min. insurance
$300,000 liability
Fee range
$200-$600 initial
Timeline
4-10 weeks
How to get licensed
in Hawaii.
Form your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Hawaii 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: Hawaii 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 Hawaii household goods carrier operating authority
Contact Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to apply for your intrastate operating authority. The application requires proof of insurance, a fitness review, and applicable fees. Timeline is typically 4-10 weeks.
Agency: Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) · 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. Hawaii requires a minimum of $300,000 liability.
Agency: Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) (insurance filing)
Obtain local business license
Most cities and counties in Hawaii 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 Hawaii unique.
Hawaii's island geography creates a unique moving market. Inter-island moves require barge or air freight, while intra-island moves are the bread and butter for most Hawaii movers.
The military is a major driver of the Hawaii moving market — Pearl Harbor, Schofield Barracks, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and other installations create constant relocation activity.
Hawaii has a high cost of living which translates to higher average move values. However, operational costs (especially vehicles and fuel) are also significantly higher than mainland operations.
Hawaii moving company
questions answered.
What are the unique challenges of moving in Hawaii?
Hawaii's island geography means inter-island moves require barge or air freight — a very different operation from truck moving. Most Hawaii movers specialize in intra-island moves on Oahu, Maui, or the Big Island. Cross-island or mainland moves are typically handled through shipping companies.
Is the military a big customer for Hawaii movers?
Yes — Hawaii has one of the largest concentrations of US military personnel in the world. PCS moves (permanent change of station) create constant relocation demand. Military housing moves are particularly active on Oahu.
What is the Honolulu moving market like?
Honolulu is the dominant market — it accounts for the vast majority of Hawaii's population and moving volume. Competition is moderate. Premium service quality and strong reviews are particularly important in a market where word-of-mouth carries significant weight.
Explore other states:
Licensed in Hawaii?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in Hawaii can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.