Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

New Hampshire

State license required

Regulated byBureau of Road Toll, Division of Motor Vehicles (NHDOT)

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required
Yes
Yes — Household goods carriers must obtain a Certificate of Authority before operating
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes — Movers must file insurance or surety bond sufficient to protect property
Tariff Required
No
No — Statutory tariff requirements have been eliminated; carriers now set and disclose rates independently
USDOT/UCR Required
USDOT number required for interstate or certain large vehicles; UCR applies for interstate operations
Application Fee
Yes
Yes — Modest fees apply upon application; annual per-vehicle fees may apply
Consumer Complaints
Managed through DMV’s Bureau of Road Toll; hearings and complaint process

OverviewOverview & Scope

Effective January 1, 2023, New Hampshire implemented a new intrastate moving framework under RSA Chapter 359‑T, replacing older tariff and utility-based mandates with a streamlined Certificate of Authority regime. Household goods movers must now be licensed to operate, but tariffs no longer need to be filed with the state.

RegistrationRegistration & Documentation Requirements

To operate legally:

  1. Obtain a Certificate of Authority from the DMV’s Bureau of Road Toll.
  2. Post Insurance or Bond as required under RSA 359‑T–8 to ensure protection of consumer property.
  3. Provide Written Estimates before performing moves, including:
    • Cost estimates
    • Customer’s rights
    • Over‑estimate procedures
  4. Maintain Records according to statutory standards; be prepared for inspections or hearings as needed.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

The updated New Hampshire framework enhances transparency and safeguards consumers by requiring:

  • Written estimates outlining costs and protections
  • A process to address disputes via DMV hearings
  • Public accountability of carrier records and operations

Consumers can file complaints under RSA 359‑T–15 to initiate review or hearing proceedings.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • Certificate of AuthorityYes
  • Insurance or Surety BondYes
  • Written Estimates for CustomersYes
  • Recordkeeping & ComplianceRequired
  • Consumer Complaint Hearing PathProvided