Wisconsin

At a glanceRequirements at a glance

License Required

Yes

Yes – Certificate of Authority for Intrastate Household Goods Carriers

Insurance Required

Yes

Yes – Public liability and cargo insurance required

Tariff Filing Required

Yes

Yes – Must file tariffs detailing rates and charges

Registration Number

Must obtain a Wisconsin USDOT number for intrastate operation

Annual Filing

Yes

Yes – Renewal and insurance updates are required annually

OverviewOverview & Scope

Any company transporting household goods for compensation within the state of Wisconsin must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. This includes services such as loading, transporting, and unloading household items for intrastate moves.

RegistrationRegistration & Compliance Essentials

Movers must:

1. Apply for Certificate of Authority to operate as a household goods carrier in Wisconsin.
2. Maintain insurance coverage, including:
   • Public liability insurance
   • Property damage coverage
   • Cargo insurance
3. File a tariff that lists all charges, rates, and services offered.
4. Register with a Wisconsin USDOT number if operating commercial motor vehicles only within the state.
5. Comply with annual filing requirements, including updates to insurance and contact information.

ConsumerConsumer Protections

• Movers must provide written estimates and contracts.
• Charges must comply with the filed tariff.
• Insurance coverage must be in place to protect consumer goods in transit.
• Consumers can contact WisDOT for verification or to file a complaint regarding service quality, overcharges, or damage.

ChecklistCompliance checklist

• Certificate of AuthorityYes
• USDOT Intrastate NumberYes
• Liability and Cargo InsuranceYes
• Tariff FilingYes
• Annual RenewalYes
• Written Estimates and ContractsYes
• Consumer Complaint ProcessYes