Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

North Carolina

State license required

Regulated byNorth Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC)

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required
Yes
Yes — Intrastate household goods movers must obtain a Certificate (“C” number) from NCUC
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes — Minimum of $50,000 liability and $50,000 cargo insurance required
Tariff Required
Yes
Yes — Must comply with the Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT) issued by NCUC
Valuation Options
Required
Required — Movers must offer at least Basic and Full Value protection per MRT
USDOT/UCR Required
USDOT number required for interstate or large vehicles; UCR if operating interstate
Consumer Complaints
Handled by NCUC or Public Staff commission staff

OverviewOverview & Scope

In North Carolina, household goods moving within city or state boundaries is regulated by the NCUC. Movers must hold a valid Certificate (“C” number) and adhere to the Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT), which governs pricing, forms, and consumer disclosures for regulated moves.

RegistrationRegistration & Compliance Essentials

Movers must:

  1. Secure a Certificate (“C” number) from the NCUC before operating.
  2. Maintain Insurance — at least $50,000 each for liability and cargo.
  3. Follow the MRT — abide by maximum rates while offering competitive (lower) pricing options.
  4. Offer Valuation Options:
    • Basic Value Protection: $0.60 per pound per article, included at no extra cost.
    • Full Value Protection: Covers replacement or repair per specified rates and valuation.
  5. Use Approved Forms — including bill of lading and informational brochures as required by the MRT.
  6. Display Certificate on documentation and make it verifiable to consumers.
  7. Maintain Listing Status — NCUC publishes and updates a directory of certificated movers monthly.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

Consumers benefit from the following protections:

  • Regulated Rates — moves are billed hourly under 35 miles or by weight/distance over 35 miles, with publicly accessible tariffs.
  • Liability Clarity — valuation options must be explained and documented.
  • Transparent Paperwork — movers must provide approved documentation like the bill of lading and consumer guide.
  • Complaint Process — Consumers can verify mover credentials and file complaints through NCUC or the Public Staff.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • NCUC Certificate (“C” number)Yes
  • $50K Liability & Cargo InsuranceYes
  • Compliance with Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT)Yes
  • Delivery of Valuation Options (Basic, Full)Yes
  • Appropriate Bill of Lading & Consumer GuideRequired
  • Listing as Certificated MoverRequired