How Do I Choose a Licensed Mover for a Move Out of California?

Moves that cross state lines are regulated by the FMCSA, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The FMCSA says a USDOT number is required for interstate moves, and it runs a consumer site called Protect Your Move to help people check movers and understand their rights.

I'm Jeanette Nelson, a REALTOR® with Jeanette Nelson Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty, serving Orange County, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, and surrounding areas. When a family is selling a home here and moving out of state, I want the move itself to feel as organized as the sale. Choosing the right mover is a big part of that.

Use the FMCSA's mover search. You can look up a company by name, USDOT number or MC number and see its registration status, headquarters location, type of business and complaint history.

Pay attention to one detail. The FMCSA explains that a company can be registered and still not be authorized to move household goods. Confirm that the mover is authorized for household goods and has insurance on file.

The FMCSA also suggests avoiding movers and brokers that don't show a USDOT number in their advertising.

This matters. The FMCSA explains that brokers don't have trucks and don't take possession of your belongings. They arrange the move with a separate mover. A broker must also be registered with the FMCSA.

If you're talking with a broker, ask which mover will actually carry your things, and check that mover too.

Get written estimates from more than one company. The FMCSA describes two main types:

• Binding estimate. A written agreement that sets the total cost based on the items and services listed. If you add items or services, the mover may revise it before loading.
• Non-binding estimate. The final bill is based on the actual weight and services. The FMCSA says the mover can't require you to pay more than 110% of a non-binding estimate at delivery, with any remaining charges billed afterward.

The FMCSA also warns against movers that refuse to do a physical survey of your household goods or that want cash-only payment. A complete look at everything you're moving leads to a more reliable estimate.

Interstate movers offer two levels of liability, and the difference is big.

• Full value protection. The FMCSA says this is the default unless you waive it in writing. The mover must repair, replace or pay the current market value for lost or damaged items. It costs more.
• Released value. This no-cost option limits the mover's liability to 60 cents per pound, per article. The FMCSA's example: a 25-pound TV would be worth only $15 under this option. You must sign a specific statement to choose it.

Tell your mover in writing about any item worth more than $100 per pound, such as artwork or collectibles, so it's properly covered. For family heirlooms, ask about extra coverage.

The FMCSA says movers and brokers must give you its booklet, "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," before an interstate move. Read it, along with your estimate, your order for service and your bill of lading. Keep copies of everything.

Two more California steps help. The California DMV's moving out of state guide asks you to report your change of address and explains how to let the DMV know what happens to a California-registered vehicle. And plan the move around your escrow timeline so your belongings and your closing date line up.

If your family is planning a move out of California and selling a home here is part of it, I'd be glad to help you plan the timeline. Let's start with a private planning conversation about your family's goals. Call or text me at 714.366.8575 | DRE: 01397168, or contact me. You can also learn more on my downsizing page. Jeanette Nelson is a REALTOR® with Jeanette Nelson Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty, serving Orange County, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, and surrounding areas.