Pennsylvania

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required

Yes

Yes – Must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience before operating intrastate

Insurance Required

Yes

Yes – Minimum liability coverage of $300K–$750K depending on vehicle size

Tariff Required

Yes

Yes – Must file and comply with a tariff; changes require 30 days’ notice

USDOT / UCR Required

Yes

Yes – USDOT number required; UCR applies if operating interstate

Additional Requirements

Must be weighed by a public weighmaster for moves over 40 miles; proofs of insurance must be maintained and filed; written estimates required

Application Fee

$350 filing fee for household goods application

Consumer Protections & Complaints

Unlicensed operation may result in fines up to $1,000 per complaint; complaints handled by the PUC – Info Page

OverviewOverview & Scope

Pennsylvania classifies household goods movers as public utilities. Anyone operating intrastate moves must first obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience from the PUC and maintain compliance through insurance, tariffs, and regulatory filings.

RegistrationRegistration & Documentation Requirements

To operate legally:

1. Submit application and fee: FILE Form 189H and pay the $350 filing fee to the PUC.
2. File Insurance: Submit Form E (liability) and Form H (cargo) within 60 days; minimum required coverage is $300K–$750K depending on vehicle capacity.
3. Publish and File Tariff: Include rates and service terms. Any changes require a 30-day notice before implementation.
4. Publication Process: Applications are published for public comment in the Pennsylvania Bulletin; protests may trigger hearings.
5. Operational Compliance:
   • Shipments over 40 miles must be weighed by a public weighmaster; weight tickets attached to the bill of lading.
   • Retain quarterly reports on cost overruns (more than 10% above estimate) and shipment documentation.
   • Vehicles must be marked with the carrier’s name, PUC number, and city—unless exempt due to USDOT registration.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

• Written estimates must be provided at least 48 hours prior to the move and must align with the filed tariff.
• Claims Process: A carrier must resolve damage or dispute claims per PUC standards.
• Enforcement Tools:
  • Unlicensed operations may result in fines and liens on vehicle registrations.
  • Consumers may file complaints with the PUC’s Safety & Enforcement Bureau.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

• PUC Certificate of Public ConvenienceYes
• $350 Application FeeRequired
• Liability & Cargo Insurance Filed (Form E & H)Required
• Published Tariff & 30-Day Notice for Rate ChangesRequired
• Weighing by Public Weighmaster (moves >40 miles)Required
• Vehicle Markings (Name, PUC #)Requiredunless USDOT-exempt
• Written Estimates (≥48 hours in advance)Required
• Complaint Resolution & Enforcement via PUCProvided