The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Indiana

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR) Motor Carrier Services.

Regulation Check: Fixed Rates

Indiana requires you to file a "Tariff" listing your exact rates. You cannot change these prices without filing an update. Are you ready to stick to a published price list?

Step 1: Application (Form IOA-1)

Authority: Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR).

Apply: Submit "State Form IOA-1" (Indiana Operating Authority) and "IOA-2" (Application for Permanent Authority).
Fee: $100.00 non-refundable application fee.
Financials: You must submit a bank statement (less than 60 days old) showing a positive balance to prove financial fitness.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Filing (Form E)

Do NOT file insurance until your application is initially approved.

Timing: Once approved, you will receive a "Permanent Order." You then have 60 days to file proof of insurance.
Liability: Your insurance agent must file Form E directly with the DOR.
Limits: Typically $750,000 for general freight/household goods vehicles over 10,000 lbs.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Tariff Filing (IOA-T)

You cannot operate without a filed tariff.

Requirement: Submit your tariff along with State Form IOA-T within 60 days of approval.
Content: Must list all rates, charges, and service terms. You cannot charge fees that are not in this document.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by Indiana statutes.

Certificate: You must carry a copy of your "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" in your vehicle.
USDOT Number: Must obtain a USDOT number from the FMCSA for all commercial vehicles.
Renewal: Operating authority must be renewed annually by November 30th.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Tariff Adherence: Charging a customer "off the books" (a price not in your tariff) is a violation of Indiana Code § 8-2.1-22-23.
60-Day Clock: Once your application is approved, you strictly have 60 days to file your insurance and tariff. If you miss this window, your authority is dismissed.
Updates: If you want to change your prices, you must file an updated tariff with the DOR before charging the new rates.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What license do I need in Indiana?
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        You need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (Permanent Operating Authority) issued by the Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR). You apply using Forms IOA-1 and IOA-2.
      
      2. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. All carriers operating commercial vehicles (over 10,000 lbs) in Indiana must have a USDOT number, regardless of whether they cross state lines.
      
      3. What is a Tariff?
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        A tariff is a legal document that outlines all your rates, charges, and rules. You must file this with the DOR. You are legally required to charge only the rates listed in your tariff—no hidden fees allowed.
      
      4. How much is the application fee?
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        The application fee for new authority is $100.00. This fee is non-refundable and can be paid via check, money order, or credit card.
      
      5. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You typically need liability insurance of $750,000 for vehicles over 10,000 lbs. Your insurance company must file Form E directly with the DOR after your application is initially approved.
      
      6. When do I file my insurance?
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        Do not file insurance with your initial application. Wait until you receive a "Permanent Order" from the DOR. You then have 60 days to file your Form E and Tariff to finalize your certificate.
      
      7. Can I change my rates?
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        Yes, but you must file an updated tariff with the DOR first. The new rates are generally effective 30 days after filing. You cannot charge the new rates until the tariff is on file.
      
      8. Do I need to renew my authority?
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        Yes. Indiana Operating Authority must be renewed annually by November 30th. Failure to renew can result in revocation of your certificate.
      
      9. What financial documents do I need?
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        You must submit a bank statement in the business's legal name. The statement must be less than 60 days old and show a positive balance to prove you are financially fit to operate.
      
      10. How long does the process take?
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        Applications typically take 30-60 days to process. You are not authorized to transport household goods until you receive your final certificate.

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

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What to expect on this call:

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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.