Moves within Florida
A business performing intrastate household moves must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. FDACS says this state registration is required regardless of separate local licensing requirements. Search by the company’s legal name and confirm the status is current.
Moves crossing state lines
Interstate household-goods movers must be federally registered and have a U.S. DOT number. Use FMCSA’s mover search to confirm the company’s headquarters, contact information, registration status, business type, and available complaint or safety information.
Carrier versus broker
A carrier performs the move with its operating authority. A broker arranges for another company to perform it. Ask which one you are hiring, who will arrive, and whose name will appear on every document.
Written documents
For an intrastate Florida move, the estimate and contract should identify the mover and registration number, dates, addresses, services, itemized costs, and accepted payment methods. Confirm packing, loading, delivery, and storage dates in writing.
Valuation is not the same as ordinary insurance
Ask the mover to explain its basic liability and any additional valuation choices in dollars and examples. Florida consumer guidance notes a released-liability option of at least 60 cents per pound per article; that can be far below replacement cost.
Coverage terms can be technical. Read the mover’s written options and check your homeowners or renters policy before move day.
If there is a claim
Notify the mover in writing promptly and follow its claim instructions. Keep photos, inventory records, receipts, contracts, and correspondence. If an intrastate mover does not resolve the matter satisfactorily, FDACS accepts consumer complaints.
Verify it yourself
Requirements can change. These official sources are the best place to confirm current information.
FDACS moving-company requirementsFDACS consumer guideFMCSA mover search