The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Kentucky

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Division of Motor Carriers.

Truck Weight Check: The "KIT" License

Will your moving truck weigh more than 26,000 lbs (or have 3+ axles)?

Step 1: Household Goods Certificate

Authority: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).

Apply: Submit "Form TC 95-591" (Household Goods Certificate Qualification Application).
Fee: $25.00 application fee + $10.00 per vehicle fee.
Situs: You must declare your specific business location ("situs") on the application.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Filing (Form E & H)

Your agent must file these directly with KYTC Division of Motor Carriers.

Liability (Form E): Minimum $100k/$300k/$50k (or $750k CSL for larger trucks).
Cargo (Form H): Required for all Household Goods carriers. Minimum coverage typically $5,000.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Tariff Filing

You cannot operate without filed rates.

Requirement: You must file a Tariff containing your rates and charges with the Division of Motor Carriers.
Transparency: This tariff must be available to the public. You are legally required to charge these rates.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Tax Licenses (KIT / KYU)

Required for heavy vehicles (>26,000 lbs).

KIT License: "Kentucky Intrastate Tax" license for intrastate carriers. Requires quarterly fuel tax filings.
KYU Number: Required if your combined weight exceeds 59,999 lbs (weight-distance tax).

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

USDOT Number: All intrastate carriers with vehicles >10,000 lbs must have a USDOT number.
Tariff Adherence: Charging a rate different from your filed tariff is a violation. You cannot give "discounts" that aren't in your tariff.
Annual Renewal: You must renew your authority and vehicle credentials annually via the KYTC portal.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What license do I need in Kentucky?
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        You need a Household Goods Certificate issued by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). You apply using Form TC 95-591. This is specific to movers and distinct from general freight authority.
      
      2. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. All carriers operating vehicles over 10,000 lbs in Kentucky commerce must obtain a USDOT number. You must list this on your certificate application.
      
      3. What is a KIT License?
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        The "Kentucky Intrastate Tax" (KIT) license is a fuel tax credential required for intrastate carriers with vehicles over 26,000 lbs or with 3 or more axles. You must file quarterly tax returns if you hold this license.
      
      4. What is a KYU Number?
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        The KYU number is for the Weight Distance Tax. It is required if your combined licensed weight is 60,000 lbs or more. Most standard moving trucks won't need this unless they are semi-trucks.
      
      5. Do I need to file a Tariff?
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        Yes. All household goods movers must file a tariff (a document listing your rates and charges) with the KYTC Division of Motor Carriers. You must charge the rates listed in your tariff.
      
      6. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You generally need Form E (Liability) and Form H (Cargo). Liability limits are typically $100k/$300k/$50k for vehicles under 18,000 lbs, and higher ($750k) for larger trucks. Cargo insurance minimum is typically $5,000.
      
      7. How much is the application fee?
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        The application fee is generally $25.00 plus $10.00 per vehicle that you register. These fees are non-refundable.
      
      8. What markings must be on my truck?
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        Your truck must display your Legal Company Name and your USDOT Number. While the KYTC certificate number was historically required, the USDOT number is the primary identifier now required on the side of the vehicle.
      
      9. Can I charge by the hour?
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        Yes, hourly rates are permitted for miscellaneous labor or local moves, provided these rates are explicitly stated in your filed tariff.
      
      10. Do I need to carry my certificate in the truck?
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        Yes. You should keep a copy of your Kentucky Intrastate Authority Certificate (and/or your cab card) in the vehicle at all times to prove you are authorized to operate.

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.
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