Washington

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required

Yes

Yes — Intrastate “Household Goods Carrier Permit” required for any for-hire moves within the state

Insurance Required

Yes

Yes — Must file public liability and cargo insurance via state forms

Tariff Required

Yes

Yes — Must operate under UTC-approved tariff; minimum and maximum rates defined

Mandatory Training

Yes

Yes — Company representatives must attend UTC-provided training before a provisional permit is issued

USDOT / Interstate Moves

Yes

Yes — Must register with FMCSA and display USDOT (and MC) numbers for interstate services

Permit Number Display

Yes

Yes — Permit number must appear on all ads, estimates, and vehicle markings

City Permits

Required

Required — Local permits (e.g., curb-space) may also be needed depending on municipal rules

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Civil penalties up to thousands per day and potential vehicle impoundment

Complaints

File a Complaint

OverviewOverview & Scope

Any business moving household goods for hire within Washington’s borders must hold a Household Goods Carrier Permit issued by the UTC. Operating without this permit is illegal and carries significant enforcement consequences.

RegistrationRegistration & Compliance Essentials

Movers must:

1. Attend UTC Training — mandatory orientation or training is required before applying.
2. Submit Permit Application, including details of business, insurance, and tariff.
3. File Insurance — public liability and cargo coverage via UTC forms.
4. Adhere to UTC Tariff — rates must remain within prescribed limits.
5. Display Permit Number — on company materials and vehicles.
6. Update Tariff for Alternative Billing — if opting out of standard rates, file appropriate forms with UTC.
7. Comply with Local Regulations — secure city-specific permits when needed.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

Consumers are safeguarded by:

• Working only with permitted carriers—unauthorized movers operate illegally and offer little recourse.
• Transparent pricing via public tariffs, with clear minimum/maximum rates.
• Required training ensures carrier competence.
• A public complaints portal empowers consumers to report violations and enforce protections.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

• UTC Household Goods Carrier PermitYes
• Training for Authorized PersonnelRequired
• Liability & Cargo Insurance FiledYes
• Compliance with UTC Tariff StructureRequired
• Permit Number Clearly DisplayedRequired
• Alternative Billing & Tariff Forms FiledRequired if applicable
• Local Permits (e.g., curb, city requirements)Required if applicable
• Consumer Complaint Process via UTCProvided