Truck & authority
launchpad.
Go legal. Go fast.
Getting authorized to operate is the most confusing part of starting a moving company. We break it down into a clear, step-by-step process — what you need, in what order, and where to get it.
$300
MC authority fee
Free
USDOT registration
20-45 days
MC processing time
7 steps
To full authority
7 steps to legal
operations.
Get your USDOT number
1 dayFreeThe USDOT number is your federal registration with the FMCSA. Required for any vehicle over 10,001 lbs GVWR. Apply online at FMCSA.dot.gov — it's free and typically issued within 1-3 business days. This is the first registration you'll need before getting anything else.
Register at FMCSA →Apply for MC authority (if interstate)
20-45 days$300If you plan to move household goods across state lines, you need Motor Carrier (MC) authority — sometimes called your "operating authority." Apply through FMCSA after getting your USDOT number. There's a $300 application fee. After approval, you'll have an MC number to display on your vehicles.
Apply for MC authority →File your BOC-3
1-3 days$35-$75A BOC-3 is a "Process Agent" designation — a requirement for MC authority. It designates an agent in each state who can accept legal documents on your behalf. You hire a BOC-3 filing service (third-party companies that handle this for $35-$75). File this before your MC authority is activated.
Get your commercial insurance
1-5 daysVariesFederal requirements for interstate household goods carriers: minimum $750,000 liability. Intrastate requirements vary by state (typically $300,000). You'll also need cargo insurance and commercial auto coverage for your vehicles. Work with an insurance broker who specializes in transportation — not a general business insurance agent.
Get your state operating authority
2-8 weeksVaries by stateIn addition to federal requirements, most states require intrastate movers to obtain state-level operating authority. Requirements vary significantly — see the License Hub for your specific state's requirements, agencies, and fees.
Find your state's requirements →Acquire your truck
Varies$15K-$80K+Once your registrations are in order, it's time to get your truck. Used 26-foot box trucks run $15,000-$30,000. New trucks run $50,000-$80,000+. Leasing is an option if capital is tight. Make sure any truck you acquire can be registered with your USDOT number and meets your state's commercial vehicle requirements.
Register with IRP (if multi-state)
1-2 weeksVariesIf your vehicles will travel and pick up loads in multiple states, you need apportioned plates through the International Registration Plan (IRP). Register through your home state's DMV or motor carrier division. IRP plates allow your truck to legally operate in all participating jurisdictions.
Choosing your truck.
16 ft
1-2 bedroom apartment
GVWR: ~14,500 lbs
Pros
Easiest to drive, low fuel cost, fits in most parking
Cons
Limited capacity, may need multiple trips for larger homes
Best for
Labor-only upgrades, small apartment moves
20 ft
2-3 bedroom home
GVWR: ~14,500-16,000 lbs
Pros
Versatile, good fuel economy, manageable in urban areas
Cons
Can be tight for full 3-bedroom homes
Best for
Apartment-focused operations, smaller local moves
26 ft
3-4 bedroom home
GVWR: ~26,000 lbs
Pros
Most versatile — handles most residential moves, widely available used
Cons
Requires CDL in some situations; larger fuel costs
Best for
General residential moving — the industry standard
Truck & authority
questions answered.
What is a USDOT number and do I need one?
A USDOT number is a federal registration number from the FMCSA. Required for any commercial vehicle over 10,001 lbs GVWR or for interstate operations. Most moving trucks require a USDOT number. It's free to obtain at FMCSA.dot.gov.
What is MC authority and when do I need it?
Motor Carrier (MC) authority is required for any company transporting household goods across state lines for compensation. If you're only doing intrastate moves (within your state), you may only need state-level authority. Apply through FMCSA.
How long does it take to get fully authorized to operate?
USDOT number: 1-3 business days. MC authority: 20-45 days after application. State authority: 2-8 weeks (varies by state). Budget 6-10 weeks for the complete process if you're doing interstate moves.
What size moving truck should I start with?
A 26-foot box truck is the most versatile starting point — large enough for 3-bedroom homes, standard enough for most situations, and widely available used. Many new operators start with a 16 or 20-foot truck to reduce costs, especially if focusing on apartment or small local moves.
Do I need a CDL to drive a moving truck?
Not necessarily. Vehicles under 26,001 lbs GVWR (most 26-foot trucks are just under this threshold) do not require a CDL for non-hazmat operations in most states. However, some states have their own CDL thresholds. Verify your specific state's requirements before purchasing your vehicle.
Can I start with a rented truck while I get authorized?
Yes — a labor-only model using customer-rented trucks (U-Haul, Penske, etc.) allows you to start generating revenue and building reviews while your registrations are processing. This is a common and smart approach for new operators.
What insurance do I need as a new moving company?
Minimum requirements: commercial auto insurance for your vehicles, general liability insurance, and cargo insurance for items you transport. Interstate movers need at minimum $750,000 liability. For intrastate, requirements vary by state (typically $300,000). Work with a transportation insurance specialist — not a generic business insurer.
Licensed and ready?
Now get found.
Getting your authority is step one. Step two is making sure customers can find you. Our SEO and marketing services are built for new and growing moving companies.