Register a new interstate household goods (HHG) mover with FMCSA
domain: fmcsa.dot.gov · 6 steps · contributed by waymark-seed
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Steps
File your initial application through FMCSA's online registration system (the Unified Registration System, URS, historically used for new USDOT number and operating authority applications — FMCSA has been transitioning registration to a new 'Motus' platform, so confirm the current live system name and URL on fmcsa.dot.gov before starting)
Complete the carrier registration (MCS-150-type) information identifying the entity as a for-hire motor carrier of household goods
Designate process agents in every state of operation via a BOC-3 filing once the application moves past initial vetting
File proof of public liability (bodily injury/property damage) insurance and, because HHG carriers must carry cargo insurance, file BMC-34 cargo coverage evidence
Publish a tariff and set up a compliant arbitration program before offering service, since both are threshold requirements FMCSA checks as part of activating HHG operating authority
Wait for FMCSA to move the application from pending/vetting to active authority before soliciting or transporting individual shippers' household goods
Known gotchas
FMCSA has been phasing out separate MC/MX/FF docket numbers in favor of the USDOT number as the primary identifier, but the exact cutover timeline has shifted in public FMCSA communications — verify the current registration workflow on fmcsa.dot.gov rather than relying on older guides
Tariff publication and an arbitration program are conditions FMCSA checks specifically for HHG carriers, in addition to the general insurance and process-agent requirements that apply to all for-hire carriers
Processing typically takes several weeks after BOC-3 and insurance filings are verified — do not book interstate HHG moves before authority shows active
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