The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Massachusetts

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU).

Requirement Check: The Public Hearing

Are you prepared to attend a mandatory public hearing (usually virtual) on the second Tuesday of the month?

Step 1: DPU Application

Authority: MA Department of Public Utilities (DPU).

Apply: Submit the "Household Goods Mover Application" online or by mail.
Fee: $100.00 one-time filing fee.
Hearing: After applying, you will be scheduled for a hearing to prove you are "fit, willing, and able".

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Filing

You must file a "Certificate of Insurance" with the DPU.

Cargo: Minimum $10,000 coverage.
Liability: Sufficient coverage for bodily injury/property damage (typically $750k).
Timing: Must be submitted within 60 days of your hearing.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Tariff & Decals

You cannot operate without these.

Tariff: You must file a rate schedule with the DPU ($100 filing fee).
Decals: You must purchase a DPU decal for every vehicle ($40 each).
Renewals: Decals must be renewed annually.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by MA consumer protection laws.

Financials: Must submit a balance sheet with your application.
Bill of Lading: Must include your DPU certificate number.
Markings: Truck must display the owner's name and DPU License Number.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Advertising: You MUST include your DPU Certificate Number in every advertisement (website, social media, flyers).
60 Cent Rule: Standard liability is $0.60/lb. You must offer options for higher valuation.
Decals: Operating a truck without a valid annual DPU decal is a major violation.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What is the DPU Hearing?
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        After submitting your application, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will schedule a public hearing (typically the second Tuesday of the next month). The business owner must attend to answer questions and prove they are "fit, willing, and able" to operate.
      
      2. What is a Tariff?
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        A tariff is a document listing all your rates, charges, and terms. You must file this with the DPU (along with a $100 filing fee). You are legally required to charge the rates listed in your tariff.
      
      3. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You must carry at least $10,000 in Cargo Insurance. You must also carry sufficient public liability insurance (industry standard is often $750,000, though DPU evaluates "sufficiency").
      
      4. What is a DPU Decal?
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        Every vehicle you use for moving must display a DPU decal. These cost $40 per vehicle and must be renewed annually. You cannot get decals until your insurance and tariff are approved.
      
      5. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        While the DPU certificate covers intrastate (Mass-only) moves, most movers also obtain a USDOT number from the FMCSA for safety identification, especially if they plan to cross state lines later.
      
      6. How much is the application fee?
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        The application filing fee is $100.00. Remember to budget for the $100 tariff filing fee and $40/vehicle decals as well.
      
      7. Can I charge by the hour?
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        Yes, hourly rates are standard for local moves in Massachusetts. However, your specific hourly rates must be listed in the tariff you file with the DPU.
      
      8. What markings must be on my truck?
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        Your truck must display the DPU Certificate Number (e.g., "MDPU #12345") and the business name. Failing to display this number is a violation of state law.
      
      9. What is the "60 Cents" rule?
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        By default, your liability for lost or damaged goods is limited to $0.60 per pound per article (Released Value). You must offer customers the option to purchase "Full Value Protection" for better coverage.
      
      10. How long does the process take?
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        The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. Applications are scheduled for the next month's hearing, and you have 60 days after the hearing to submit your insurance and tariff to finalize the certificate.

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