The official roadmap
to starting a moving
company in Washington.
A verified guide sourced from Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC).
License type
Washington UTC Household Goods Carrier Permit
Min. insurance
$300,000 liability
Fee range
$300-$700 initial
Timeline
4-10 weeks
How to get licensed
in Washington.
Form your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Washington 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: Washington 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 Washington household goods carrier operating authority
Contact Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) 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: Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) · 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. Washington requires a minimum of $300,000 liability.
Agency: Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) (insurance filing)
Obtain local business license
Most cities and counties in Washington 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 Washington unique.
Washington UTC regulates intrastate household goods carriers. The application process includes insurance filing, tariff submission, and a safety fitness review.
Seattle is one of the highest-income moving markets in the US, driven by the tech industry (Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing). High average move values and a tech-savvy customer base that researches movers carefully online.
Washington has no state income tax, making it attractive for business operations. However, the B&O (Business and Occupation) tax applies to moving services.
Washington moving company
questions answered.
What license do I need to start a moving company in Washington State?
Washington State intrastate movers must obtain a Household Goods Carrier Permit from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). You also need a USDOT number for vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR and commercial insurance.
Is Seattle a good market for movers?
Seattle is an excellent market — high incomes, tech-driven demand, and consistent in-migration. The challenge is that Seattle customers are highly online-savvy and will research reviews extensively before booking. Google reviews and a strong web presence are especially critical here.
Does Washington have a B&O tax for moving companies?
Yes. Washington's Business and Occupation (B&O) tax applies to moving services. Washington has no state income tax but does have B&O, which applies to gross receipts. Register with the Washington Department of Revenue and consult a CPA familiar with WA tax law.
Explore other states:
Licensed in Washington?
Now let’s get you found.
Getting licensed is step one. Step two is making sure customers in Washington can find you on Google when they’re ready to move.