The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Arkansas

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and Arkansas Highway Commission.

Reality Check: The Public Hearing

Are you prepared to appear in person before the Arkansas State Highway Commission to defend your business application?

Step 1: Application for Authority

Authority: Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT).

Form: Submit the "Application for Permanent Authority" to transport household goods.
Fee: $50.00 filing fee (Cashier's Check or Money Order).
Financials: You must attach a balance sheet and income statement to prove financial fitness.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: The Mandatory Hearing

You cannot skip this step.

Notice: After filing, ARDOT publishes a notice. Competitors have 10 days to protest your application.
Appearance: You will receive a hearing date. Personal appearance is mandatory to prove you are "fit, willing, and able".

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Insurance & Fees

Once approved, you must file proof of coverage.

Liability (Rule 13.1): Min $50,000/$100,000/$30,000. This is lower than the federal $750k requirement.
Vehicle Fee: You must remit $5.00 for each vehicle you will operate.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by ARDOT regulations.

Tariff: You must file a tariff containing your rates and charges with the Commission.
Markings: Truck must display your "ARK. M No." (Arkansas Motor Carrier Number).

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Separate Payments: The $50 application fee and the $5/vehicle fee must be paid with *separate* checks. Combining them causes rejection.
Protests: If an existing mover protests your application, the hearing becomes a legal battle. Be prepared to defend why the public needs you.
Address: You must list a physical Arkansas business address or designate an agent for service of process.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What license do I need in Arkansas?
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        You need "Intrastate Authority" from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT). Specifically, you apply for a Certificate to transport household goods.
      
      2. Is the hearing really mandatory?
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        Yes. ARDOT regulations state that "Personal appearance at the hearing is mandatory." Hearings are held at the ARDOT Central Office in Little Rock.
      
      3. How much is the application fee?
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        The filing fee is $50.00. You must pay this via Cashier's Check or Money Order; personal or business checks are often rejected for initial applications.
      
      4. Are there vehicle fees?
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        Yes. You must remit an insurance filing fee of $5.00 per vehicle. This must be paid with a *separate* check from the application fee.
      
      5. What are the insurance requirements?
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        Per Rule 13.1, Arkansas requires Public Liability insurance of $50,000/$100,000/$30,000 (Bodily Injury per person/accident and Property Damage). While this is lower than the federal $750k limit, most movers carry higher limits for protection.
      
      6. Do I need to file a Tariff?
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        Yes. You are required to file a tariff (rate schedule) with the Commission. This ensures you charge consistent rates to all customers.
      
      7. What markings must be on my truck?
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        Your vehicle must display your Company Name and your ARK. M No. (Arkansas Motor Carrier Number). If you also have a USDOT number, display that as well.
      
      8. What documents do I need to prepare?
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        You need the Application for Permanent Authority, a Balance Sheet (Schedule B), an Income Statement, and proof of insurance (or ACORD form).
      
      9. Certificate vs. Permit - What's the difference?
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        Household goods carriers are issued a "Certificate" (requires a hearing). General freight carriers are issued a "Permit" (simpler process, no hearing usually required). Ensure you apply for the correct one.
      
      10. How long does the process take?
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        It takes time. You must wait for the "Notice of Filing" to be published, then wait 10 days for protests, then wait for your scheduled hearing date. Expect the process to take several weeks to a few months.

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