Louisiana

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required

Yes

Yes – Certificate of Intrastate Authority required

Insurance Required

Yes

Yes – Liability and cargo insurance required

Tariff Required

Yes

Yes – Filed tariff required for all intrastate household goods carriers

USDOT/UCR

USDOT number required; UCR if operating interstate

Application Fee

Approx. $150–$250

Consumer Complaints

Filed with the LPSC Consumer Services Division
Online Form

OverviewOverview & Scope

Any company or individual offering household goods moving services within Louisiana for compensation must obtain authority from the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). Covered services include packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and storage in transit within the state.

Unauthorized operations are prohibited and subject to enforcement actions and penalties.

RegistrationRegistration & Documentation Requirements

To become a legal intrastate mover in Louisiana, applicants must:

1. Apply for a Certificate of Authority:
   • Submit a completed application to the LPSC
   • Include company name, business address, ownership details, and service area
   • Pay the required filing fee
2. File a Tariff:
   • Include rates, charges, fuel surcharges, and accessorial services
   • Tariff must be approved before beginning operations
3. Provide Required Insurance:
   • Public liability and property damage insurance
   • Cargo insurance covering damage or loss of household goods
4. Display USDOT Number:
   • All commercial motor vehicles must display a valid USDOT number
5. Maintain Compliance:
   • Renew authority as required
   • Keep tariff and insurance filings up to date

InsuranceInsurance & Tariff Requirements

• Liability Insurance: Minimum coverage is mandated to protect the public.
• Cargo Insurance: Ensures coverage of personal belongings during transit.
• Tariff: Movers must operate strictly according to their filed and approved tariff. Hidden fees are prohibited.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

Louisiana law provides robust protections for moving consumers, including:

• Right to a written estimate and Bill of Lading
• Right to review the mover’s filed tariff upon request
• Protection from unauthorized charges or service refusals
• Complaint resolution via the Public Service Commission

Consumers may report issues such as:

• Property damage
• Failure to deliver or detainment of goods
• Overcharges or hidden fees
• Operating without proper authority

ChecklistCompliance checklist

• Certificate of Intrastate AuthorityRequired
• Liability InsuranceRequired
• Cargo InsuranceRequired
• Tariff FilingRequired
• USDOT NumberRequired
• Consumer Complaint ProcessAvailable