Mover or broker · Know the difference
Before you book, identify whether the company will transport the shipment or arrange service with another mover. Then match that answer to the registration, written estimate, and move documents.
The operating difference
Federal guidance separates the company performing transportation from a company arranging it. Your estimate and disclosures should make the relationship clear.
Moving company
A registered household-goods mover transports the shipment and assumes responsibility for the transportation service described in the move documents.
Moving broker
A broker connects the customer with a registered mover. The broker does not transport the household goods and must disclose its role.
Verify before you sign
Use the legal company name and USDOT number shown in the written documents to review current federal records. Confirm who will perform transportation and ask questions before signing.
Ask whether the company is a mover or broker.
Verify the legal name and USDOT identity.
Confirm who will transport the shipment.
Compare the written estimate with the requested scope.
Read the required move documents before pickup.
Official federal resources
FMCSA publishes consumer guidance, mover registration information, and the federal materials used to prepare for an interstate move.
Mover and broker questions
Federal resources provide general guidance. The legal names, registrations, estimates, disclosures, and move documents determine the companies and terms involved in a specific shipment.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains that a moving company transports household goods, while a broker arranges transportation with a registered mover and is not authorized to transport the shipment itself.
Ask the company directly, review its written estimate and disclosures, verify its registration through official FMCSA resources, and confirm the legal name and USDOT number of the company that will transport your shipment.
Yes. Use official FMCSA resources to review current registration and safety information. Match the legal name, contact information, operating authority, and USDOT number to the company and documents involved in your move.
Review the written estimate, order for service, bill of lading, inventory, valuation and coverage options, applicable charges, and the federal Rights and Responsibilities booklet before the move begins.
Plan with the company handling the details
Share the route, inventory, dates, access, packing, storage, and delivery requirements so the proposed transportation plan can be reviewed with you.
