Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

California

State license required

Regulated byBureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS), under the Department of Consumer Affairs

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

Permit Required
Yes
Yes – Household Mover Permit (Cal‑T number) is mandatory for intrastate moves
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes – Liability, cargo, and workers’ compensation (if employees)
Tariff Filing Required
Yes
Yes – Must follow Maximum Rate Tariff 4 (Max 4) for intrastate moves
Complaint Contact
BHGS Consumer Intake Unit: (800) 366‑4782; Online form via CA.gov

OverviewOverview & Scope

Anyone involved in intrastate household goods moves (including packing, brokering, or transporting) must obtain a permit from BHGS before operating in California. This applies even to restoration companies or pod delivery services, except under limited exemptions.

PermitPermit & Registration Requirements

  • Application + $500 fee, submitted to BHGS within 120 days of filing.
  • Fingerprinting (Live Scan) required for all owners/officers to allow criminal background checks.
  • Must pass a written exam covering Max 4 tariff rules with a minimum score of 70%.
  • Employers must comply with the Pull Notice Program and safety/maintenance regulations.
  • CA Carrier Number issued by CHP must be provided.

InsuranceInsurance Obligations

  • Liability: $250,000 (per person), $500,000 (per incident), $100,000 (property) or a combined single limit of $600,000.
  • Cargo Insurance: Minimum $20,000 per shipment.
  • Workers’ Compensation: Required if employing staff.
  • C.O.D. Bond: $2,000 surety bond if handling collect-on-delivery shipments.

TariffsTariffs & Reporting

  • Must use Maximum Rate Tariff 4 (Max 4) for all intrastate moves.
  • Permits require quarterly revenue reporting, a $15 safety fee, and a uniform business tax based on revenue.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

  • Movers must conduct a visual inspection before providing an estimate.
  • A “Not to Exceed” price must be provided; change orders are required for additional services.
  • A service agreement and the state’s informational booklet must be provided prior to the move.
  • Claims must be filed in writing within 9 months of delivery.
  • Unpermitted movers may be penalized, and their vehicles impounded.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • Household Mover Permit (Cal‑T number)Required
  • Fingerprinting (Live Scan)Required
  • Written Exam (Max 4 tariff knowledge)Required
  • Liability, Cargo, Workers’ Comp InsuranceRequired
  • C.O.D. Bond (if applicable)Required
  • Tariff Compliance (Max 4)Required
  • Quarterly Reporting & FeesRequired
  • Provide Shipper Booklet & ContractRequired
  • Claims Filed Within 9 MonthsRequired