The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in Tennessee.
A verified guide sourced from Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.
License type
Tennessee Household Goods Carrier Certificate
Min. insurance
$300,000 liability
Fee range
$100-$400 initial
Timeline
3-6 weeks
How to get licensed
in Tennessee.
Form your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Tennessee 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: Tennessee 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 Tennessee household goods carrier operating authority
Contact Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance 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: Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance · 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. Tennessee requires a minimum of $300,000 liability.
Agency: Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (insurance filing)
Obtain local business license
Most cities and counties in Tennessee 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 Tennessee unique.
Tennessee has a relatively straightforward licensing process for household goods carriers. Requirements include USDOT registration, insurance, and state-level operating authority.
Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US and consistently ranks in the top 10 moving markets nationally. The Lower Broadway/Gulch area and surrounding suburbs have extraordinary demand.
Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga are growing secondary markets with less competition than Nashville. Memphis in particular is underserved relative to its size.
Tennessee moving company
questions answered.
What license do I need to start a moving company in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires a Household Goods Carrier Certificate and USDOT number for vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR. Commercial auto insurance, cargo insurance, and general liability are all required.
Is Nashville a good market for a new mover?
Nashville is one of the best markets in the country for new movers — rapid population growth, high demand, and a mix of residential and corporate relocation business. The challenge is that Nashville's growth has attracted competition. Focus on neighborhood-specific SEO and Google reviews.
What are the best markets in Tennessee outside Nashville?
Knoxville is growing significantly and has less competition than Nashville. Chattanooga has a revitalized downtown with strong apartment demand. Memphis is one of the most underserved markets in the state relative to population size.
Explore other states:
Licensed in Tennessee?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in Tennessee can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.