The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Maryland

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Maryland Department of Labor (Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing).

New Law Alert (Title 8.5)

Are you aware that as of March 1, 2026, it is illegal to operate in Maryland without being in the Department of Labor's new registry?

Step 1: Department of Labor Registration

Authority: Maryland Department of Labor (Occupational Licensing).

Apply: Submit the "Household Goods Movers Registration" online.
Deadline: Enforcement begins March 1, 2026. Unregistered movers cannot legally charge fees.
Database: Once approved, your business will appear in the public state database for consumer verification.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Requirements

You must upload proof of insurance with your application.

Liability: Minimum $750,000 Combined Single Limit (CSL).
Cargo: Minimum $20,000 coverage to protect customer goods.
Workers Comp: Mandatory for all employees; you must provide your policy number.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Vehicle Compliance

Your fleet must be properly identified.

List: You must submit a list of all commercial vehicles used for moving.
Markings: Trucks must display your Trade Name and USDOT number (if applicable).
USDOT: While the license is state-issued, a USDOT number is standard for identification.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by Maryland consumer protection laws.

Estimates: Must be written. Contracts must clarify liability limits (e.g., $0.60/lb or Full Value).
License Number: You must include your MD Registration Number in all advertisements.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Unregistered Activity: Operating without registration allows the state to void your contracts—customers might not have to pay you.
Liability Caps: You must clearly disclose if you are limiting liability to $0.60/lb. Hidden limits are a major source of AG complaints.
Renewal: Registration must be renewed annually by December 31st.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What license do I need in Maryland?
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        As of March 2026, you need a Household Goods Movers Registration issued by the Maryland Department of Labor. Previously, local moves were largely unregulated, but this new law (Title 8.5) makes registration mandatory.
      
      2. When does the new law take effect?
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        The Department of Labor began accepting applications on December 1, 2025. Full enforcement begins March 1, 2026. If you are not registered by then, you cannot legally operate.
      
      3. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You must carry at least $750,000 in General Liability (Bodily Injury/Property Damage) and $20,000 in Cargo insurance. You must also maintain Workers' Compensation for all employees.
      
      4. Is there a database of movers?
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        Yes. The new law created a searchable public database on the Department of Labor website. Consumers are encouraged to check this registry before hiring a mover. If you aren't on it, you lose credibility.
      
      5. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. The registration application requires you to list your USDOT number (or State DOT number). This is the standard identifier for commercial vehicles in Maryland.
      
      6. How much does registration cost?
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        The annual renewal fee is $100.00. Initial application fees may vary, but the ongoing cost to stay legal is very affordable compared to other states.
      
      7. Can I limit my liability?
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        Yes, but you must be transparent. The standard limitation is often $0.60 per pound per article (Released Value). If you offer this, it must be clearly stated in the contract. You should also offer Full Value Protection.
      
      8. What happens if I don't register?
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        Aside from fines, the law states that an unregistered mover "may not charge" for services. This means a customer could theoretically refuse to pay you, and the courts would not enforce your contract.
      
      9. Do I need to be fingerprinted?
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        While Maryland For-Hire drivers (taxi/limo) require fingerprinting, the new Household Goods Mover law focuses primarily on insurance and business validity. However, general business background checks are common.
      
      10. Do I need a tariff?
      ▼
    
        Unlike neighboring states (PA/VA), the new Maryland law focuses on registration and insurance rather than rate regulation (tariffs). However, you must provide written estimates and adhere to your contract terms.

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

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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.