Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

Ohio

State license required

Regulated byPublic Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) – Motor Carrier Services

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required
Yes
Yes — Intrastate household goods movers must register and obtain a Certificate of Authority (HHG Certificate) from PUCO
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes — Must file liability insurance (Form E) and cargo insurance to meet PUCO standards
Tariff Required
Yes
Yes — Movers must file a tariff listing all rates and accessorial charges
USDOT / UCR Required
USDOT number required; UCR required if operating interstate
Records & Billing
Must issue a written estimate, followed by a bill of lading that includes all charges per PUCO rules
Consumer Complaints
Managed by PUCO, with instructions provided on the bill of lading – Online Form

OverviewOverview & Scope

In Ohio, anyone operating as a household goods mover within state boundaries must register with PUCO as an intrastate, for-hire carrier. This ensures compliance with safety, insurance, and consumer-protection standards.

RegistrationRegistration & Compliance Steps

  1. Obtain a USDOT Number as a starting requirement for state-level registration.
  2. Complete PUCO Registration, including:
    • Applying for the HHG Certificate online
    • Submitting proof of required insurance coverage
  3. File a Rate Tariff listing your services, rates, and extra charges before operating.
  4. Provide Written Estimates and Bill of Lading compliant with PUCO format and content regulations.
  5. Update Annually: Renew your registration and submit updates as needed to maintain compliance.

InsuranceInsurance & Consumer Protections

  • Movers must carry adequate liability and cargo insurance to protect consumers.
  • Consumers receive legal protections, including:
    • Written estimates aligned with filed tariffs
    • Detailed bill of lading with charge breakdowns
    • Clear instructions for filing complaints with PUCO

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • PUCO HHG Certificate RegistrationYes
  • USDOT NumberYes
  • Liability & Cargo InsuranceYes
  • Tariff FilingYes
  • Written Estimate + Bill of LadingYes
  • Annual Renewal of RegistrationRequired
  • Complaint Process via PUCOProvided