The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Connecticut

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).

The "Need" Test

CT is a "Limited Entry" state. Can you prove to a judge that the public NEEDS your services and existing movers are insufficient?

Step 1: Background & Application

Authority: Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).

Background: Request a Criminal History Record Check from the State Police before applying.
Application: Submit Form K-33 (or the "Sale of Certificate" form if buying a business) to the Regulatory & Compliance Unit.
Fee: $177.00 application fee (varies by year, check current fee schedule).

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: The Public Hearing

You must defend your application.

Notice: CTDOT will publish notice of your application. Existing movers may object to it.
Hearing: You must attend a hearing to prove "Public Convenience and Necessity" (Need) and "Fitness" (Financial/Safety).

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Insurance Filing

Your agent must file these directly with CTDOT.

Form E: Liability. Min $750,000 to $1,000,000 depending on vehicle size.
Form H: Cargo. Min $5,000 per vehicle.
Decals: Once approved, you must pay $17.50/year per vehicle for ID stamps/decals.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by CTDOT regulations.

Tariff: You must file a tariff listing your rates. You must charge exactly these rates.
Markings: Truck must display "CT DOT [Number]" and your Company Name.
Brochure: Must provide the "Your Rights and Responsibilities" booklet.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Operating Without Authority: This is a Class C Misdemeanor and grounds for vehicle impoundment.
Tariff Violation: Charging a rate not listed in your tariff is a major violation. "Flat rates" are only legal if filed.
Annual Filings: You must renew your vehicle ID stamps annually for $17.50 per truck.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What license do I need in CT?
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        You need a "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" issued by the CT Department of Transportation (CTDOT). This is required for any company transporting household goods for hire within the state.
      
      2. Is it hard to get a license?
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        Yes. Connecticut is a "Limited Entry" state. You must prove at a public hearing that there is a "Public Need" for your services that existing movers are not meeting. Existing movers often object to new applications to protect their market share.
      
      3. What is a Tariff?
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        A tariff is a document listing all your rates, charges, and rules. You must file this with CTDOT. You are legally obligated to charge the exact rates listed in your tariff. Discounts or "flat rates" are illegal unless specifically included in your tariff.
      
      4. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. All movers must register for a USDOT number with the FMCSA. You must also maintain a "Satisfactory" or "Conditional" safety rating.
      
      5. What brochure must I give customers?
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        You must provide the booklet "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" (mandated by federal and state law) to every customer before the move begins.
      
      6. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You must carry $750,000 to $1,000,000 in Liability insurance and a minimum of $5,000 in Cargo insurance. Your agent must file Form E (Liability) and Form H (Cargo) with CTDOT.
      
      7. Can I charge by the hour?
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        Yes, hourly rates are standard for local moves in Connecticut. However, these rates must be published in your filed tariff.
      
      8. What markings must be on my truck?
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        Your truck must display your Company Name and your CTDOT Certificate Number (e.g., "CT DOT #12345"). You should also display your USDOT number.
      
      9. Can I buy an existing license?
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        Yes. Because getting a new certificate is difficult, many entrepreneurs buy the certificate of an existing moving company (Asset Sale). You must still apply to CTDOT for the "Sale and Transfer" of the certificate and pass a fitness review.
      
      10. Do I need to pay annual fees?
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        Yes. You must pay an annual fee of $17.50 per vehicle to file proof of insurance and maintain your operating authority.

NOT SURE WHERE TO START? LET’S TALK STRATEGY.

Stop guessing. Hop on a quick 15-minute call with us. We’ll look at your current setup, identify your biggest bottlenecks, and give you an honest recommendation on how to grow.

What to expect on this call:

No High-Pressure Sales Tactics: We hate them too. If we aren't a good fit, we'll tell you.
A "Mini-Audit": We’ll pull up your current website or Google profile live on the call.
Real Advice: You’re talking to actual movers who have scaled companies, not a script-reading salesperson.