Illinois

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required

Yes

Yes – Intrastate movers must obtain a Household Goods License from the ICC

Insurance Required

Yes

Yes – Must have liability, cargo, and workers’ compensation insurance filed with ICC

Tariff Requirement

Yes

Yes – Must file a tariff detailing rates and services; discounts are prohibited

Complaint Contact

ICC, call (217) 782‑6448 or file ICC online form

OverviewOverview & Scope

Operating as a for-hire intrastate household goods mover in Illinois requires a valid license from the ICC. No person may move household goods within the state without this certification.

RegistrationRegistration & Licensing Requirements

Movers must:

• Obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the ICC.
• Demonstrate fitness through financial records, background checks, safety programs, and retaining facilities and equipment.
• Provide proof of insurance:
  • $750,000 liability,
  • $10,000 cargo insurance,
  • Workers’ compensation as required
• Maintain and publish a tariff with all services and rates; no unauthorized services or discounts allowed
• Keep books, records, and documentation for all moves for a minimum of three years

ConsumerConsumer Protections & Standards

• Movers must provide a written estimate using the ICC-approved form, along with a copy of the Consumer Guide prior to moving.
• The Bill of Lading must reference tariff terms and include shipment details imawa.com.
• Weight-based billing requires certified scales; if unavailable, constructive weight may be used (7 lb/cu ft).
• Storage services are regulated: requires written inventory, warehouse receipt, and contracts; “storage in transit” defined for moves under 180 days.
• ICC actively enforces compliance and advises consumers to verify licensing via their website or phone.
• Written estimates cannot be exceeded by more than 10% on moving day; payment of estimate + 10% protects against goods being withheld.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

• ICC Household Goods LicenseRequired
• Insurance (Liability, Cargo, Workers’ Comp)Required
• Filed Tariff & Prohibition on DiscountsRequired
• Written Estimate & Delivery of Consumer GuideRequired
• Bill of Lading with Tariff ReferenceRequired
• Scale-based Weighing / Constructive WeightRequired
• Storage Documentation & Inventory RequirementsRequired
• Records Retained for 3 YearsRequired
• Consumer Verification Tools (ICC lookup/contact)Provided