Regulatory & compliance · Intrastate household goods

South Carolina

State license required

Regulated byOffice of Regulatory Staff (ORS), under the Public Service Commission

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required
Yes
Yes – Movers must hold a Class E Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity.
Insurance Required
Yes
Yes – Must file proof of public liability and cargo insurance with ORS.
Tariff Required
Yes
Yes – A tariff with rates and service terms must be filed and accessible.
Valuation Coverage
Yes
Yes – Standard released value must be offered; higher valuation available for additional fee.
Oversize/Overweight Moves
Yes
Yes – Separate permits are required from SCDOT for moves involving oversized or overweight loads.
USDOT / Interstate
Yes
Yes – USDOT number and UCR registration needed for interstate operations.
Consumer Complaints
Handled via ORS’s Motor Carrier Services and enforcement division. Phone: (803) 737-5230

OverviewOverview & Scope

In South Carolina, intrastate household goods carriers must be certified with the ORS as Class E motor carriers before legally operating. These carriers must maintain insurance, publish tariffs, adhere to valuation rules, and comply with permit requirements for over-sized or out-of-state moves.

RegistrationRegistration & Operational Requirements

Movers operating intrastate must:

  1. Obtain a Class E Certificate (PC&N) from the ORS.
  2. Submit Insurance Documentation, including liability and cargo coverage.
  3. File a Tariff detailing service rates, conditions, and valuation options.
  4. Offer Standard Valuation, with an option for additional coverage at a fee.
  5. Obtain SCDOT Permits for oversized or overweight household goods moves.
  6. Maintain USDOT and UCR Compliance, when applicable for interstate operations.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

Consumers benefit from:

  • Hiring licensed and insured movers, increasing accountability.
  • Access to clear, filed rates outlined in public tariffs.
  • Optional higher valuation protection for more accurate compensation.
  • A formal complaint process via the ORS if moves are mishandled or pricing disputes arise.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

  • Class E Certificate (PC&N) from ORSYes
  • Liability & Cargo Insurance FiledYes
  • Filed Tariff & Rate PublicationRequired
  • Valuation Options OfferedRequired
  • Oversize/Overweight Move PermitsRequired if applicable
  • USDOT / UCR for Interstate MovesRequired if applicable
  • Consumer Complaint Path via ORSProvided