The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Maine
A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and State Legislature.
Regulation Check: "Unregulated" State
Maine does NOT issue a specific "Household Goods Mover" license or set rates. You operate under general motor carrier rules.
Step 1: Federal USDOT Number
Your primary identification.
- Requirement: If your vehicle weighs over 10,001 lbs, you MUST have a USDOT number to operate in Maine.
- Apply: Register for free via the FMCSA website. You will need this for your state insurance filing.
Step 2: Insurance Filing (Form JB)
This is the most critical state-specific step.
- Form JB: Your insurance company must file "State of Maine Form JB" with the BMV to prove liability coverage.
- Limits: Minimum $350,000 (intrastate only) or $750,000 (if you ever cross state lines) Combined Single Limit.
Step 3: Commercial Registration
You must register your trucks correctly.
- Register: Register your vehicle as "Commercial" with the Maine BMV.
- Heavy Trucks: If over 26,000 lbs, you may need IRP registration (if interstate) or standard commercial plates (if intrastate).
Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"
Even without state regulation, follow best practices.
- Bill of Lading: Use a standard Bill of Lading for every move to clarify liability and terms.
- Markings: Truck must display your Company Name and USDOT number.
- Rates: You do NOT file a tariff. You are free to set your own rates and pricing structure.
The "Don't Get Fined" Zone
- Oversize Permits: If you move a load that exceeds legal size/weight (e.g., machinery), you need an Overlimit Permit from the BMV.
- Fuel Tax: If your vehicle is >26,000 lbs or has 3+ axles, you must register for IFTA fuel tax reporting.
- Local Rules: Cities like Portland may require temporary "No Parking" permits for your truck on move day.
Official Government Portals
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a moving license in Maine?
No. Maine does not issue a specific "Household Goods Mover" license. The industry is economically unregulated. However, you must comply with vehicle safety, registration, and insurance laws.
2. Do I need a USDOT number?
Yes. If you operate a vehicle over 10,001 lbs for commercial purposes in Maine, you must obtain a USDOT number. This is required for your vehicle registration.
3. What is Form JB?
"Form JB" is the State of Maine's required proof of insurance form. Your insurance carrier must file this with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) before you can register your commercial vehicle.
4. What are the insurance requirements?
For intrastate-only property carriers, the minimum Liability insurance is $350,000 (Combined Single Limit). However, if you cross state lines, the federal minimum is $750,000.
5. Do I need to file a Tariff?
No. Maine is an unregulated state for rates. You do not file a tariff with the government. You can set your own prices, but you should clearly outline them in a written contract.
6. Do I need a CDL?
Only if you operate vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs or more. Most standard 26ft moving trucks are rated at exactly 26,000 lbs to avoid this, but you must check your truck's VIN plate.
7. Who regulates movers in Maine?
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) - Motor Carrier Services oversees vehicle registration, fuel tax, and insurance compliance. The Maine State Police enforces safety rules on the road.
8. Is cargo insurance required?
State law does not strictly mandate a specific cargo insurance minimum for general intrastate freight, but most credible movers carry at least $10,000 to protect themselves from liability claims.
9. Do I need local permits?
You may. Cities like Portland often require "No Parking" signs or street occupancy permits if your truck will block a lane or take up metered spots. Check with the local City Hall.
10. How do I register my truck?
You register your vehicle as "Commercial" with the Maine BMV. You will need your proof of insurance (Form JB filed by agent) and your USDOT number to complete the registration.