The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in Kentucky.
A verified guide sourced from Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Carriers.
License type
Kentucky Intrastate Operating Authority
Min. insurance
$300,000 liability
Fee range
$100-$400 initial
Timeline
2-6 weeks
How to get licensed
in Kentucky.
Form your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Kentucky 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: Kentucky 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 Kentucky household goods carrier operating authority
Contact Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Carriers to apply for your intrastate operating authority. The application requires proof of insurance, a fitness review, and applicable fees. Timeline is typically 2-6 weeks.
Agency: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Carriers · 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. Kentucky requires a minimum of $300,000 liability.
Agency: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Carriers (insurance filing)
Obtain local business license
Most cities and counties in Kentucky 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 Kentucky unique.
Kentucky's Transportation Cabinet regulates intrastate household goods carriers. Requirements include operating authority, USDOT compliance, and insurance.
Louisville and Lexington are the two primary markets. Louisville has a significant healthcare and logistics industry that drives corporate relocation. Lexington has strong demand from the University of Kentucky and growing professional population.
Kentucky's central location between major Midwest and Southeast cities makes it a strategic base for movers doing regional long-distance moves.
Kentucky moving company
questions answered.
What license do I need to start a moving company in Kentucky?
Kentucky requires intrastate operating authority from the Transportation Cabinet, a USDOT number for vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR, and commercial insurance.
Is Louisville a good market for new movers?
Louisville is a solid market with consistent demand. UPS Worldport (major hub), healthcare systems (Humana, Norton Healthcare, Baptist Health), and manufacturing all drive corporate relocation. The East End suburbs (St. Matthews, Middletown, Anchorage) have strong residential demand.
Explore other states:
Licensed in Kentucky?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in Kentucky can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.