Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods
Florida
State license required
Regulated byFlorida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS)
At a glanceRequirements at a glance
- Registration Required
- Yes
- Yes – Intrastate movers and brokers must register with FDACS and receive an IM (Intrastate Mover) number
- Insurance Required
- Yes
- Yes – Cargo liability and vehicle liability insurance required; small operators may post a $25,000 surety bond instead
- Written Estimate Required
- Yes
- Yes – A written estimate and contract with valuation options are mandatory
- Cannot Withhold Goods
- Yes
- Yes – Withholding goods after payment is completed is a felony
- Complaint Contact
- FDACS Consumer Complaints via website or hotline
OverviewOverview & Scope
Florida law under Chapter 507 mandates that any individual or company offering intrastate household moving services—either as a mover or broker—must register with FDACS and obtain an Intrastate Mover (IM) number before conducting business
RegistrationRegistration & Documentation Requirements
- Registration Fee: $300 annually per mover or broker; renewed biennially
- Registration Display: IM number must be prominently displayed on business materials, advertising, contracts, and vehicles
InsuranceInsurance & Valuation Requirements
- Liability Coverage: Minimum $10,000 cargo coverage (or $25,000 surety bond for small operators) plus vehicle liability based on truck size
- Valuation: Movers must provide valuation coverage of at least $0.60 per pound per item. Additional coverage is available and must be disclosed in writing
ConsumerConsumer Protections
- Written Estimates & Contracts: Must outline all services, valuation coverage, and allow at least two forms of payment (cash, check, credit card)
- No Goods Withheld: If full payment has been made, state law prohibits movers from withholding delivery—even if disputes arise
ChecklistCompliance checklist
- FDACS IM RegistrationRequired
- Registration Fee$300/yr, biennial renewal
- Insurance CoverageRequired
- Written Estimate & ContractRequired
- Goods Not Withheld After PaymentRequired
