The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Nevada

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA).

Prerequisite Check: Financial Fitness

Can you prove your business has 20% equity and 90 days of operating cash in the bank?

Step 1: CPCN Application

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Authority: Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA).

  • Apply: Submit the "Passenger or Household Goods Mover Application".
  • Fee: $200.00 filing fee (Check or Money Order).
  • Financials: You must submit a "Pro Forma" Balance Sheet and Income Statement.

Step 2: Insurance Filing

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Your agent must file certificates directly with the NTA.

  • Liability: Min $750,000 (typical for non-hazmat trucks).
  • Cargo: Min $25,000 per vehicle.
  • Work Comp: Proof of coverage is mandatory if you have employees.

Step 3: Tariff Filing

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You must publish your rates.

  • Requirement: You must file a Tariff (rate schedule) with the NTA.
  • Adherence: You cannot change rates without filing an update. "Bait and switch" pricing is illegal.

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

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Required by NTA regulations.

  • Vehicle Markings: Truck must display "CPCN [Number]" on both sides.
  • Estimates: Must provide written, binding estimates upon request.
  • Safety: You must maintain a satisfactory safety rating (audits occur).

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

  • Operating Without Authority: This is a misdemeanor in NV. Your vehicle can be impounded.
  • Rate Matching: You MUST charge the exact rates listed in your filed tariff. No "cash discounts" off the books.
  • Annual Renewal: You must renew your CPCN annually and pay the associated fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a CPCN?
A "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (CPCN) is the license required to operate as a household goods mover in Nevada. It is issued by the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA).
2. Who regulates movers in Nevada?
Intrastate household goods movers are regulated by the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA). Note: This is separate from the DMV, which regulates vehicle registration.
3. What is a Tariff?
A tariff is a document that lists all your rates, charges, and service terms. You must file this with the NTA. You are legally required to charge the rates listed in your tariff to prevent "bait and switch" pricing.
4. What are the insurance requirements?
You must carry $750,000 in Liability insurance (though this may rise to $1M-$1.5M in future years) and a minimum of $25,000 in Cargo insurance. Proof must be filed with the NTA.
5. How much is the application fee?
The filing fee for a new CPCN application is $200.00. You must also pay for vehicle decals and annual renewal fees.
6. What are the financial requirements?
Nevada is strict. You must submit "Pro Forma" financial statements showing you have at least 20% equity and enough cash to cover 90 days of operating expenses.
7. Can I give a verbal estimate?
No. Upon request, you must provide a written, binding estimate based on a visual inspection of the goods. The final charge cannot exceed the estimate unless the customer requests additional services.
8. What markings must be on my truck?
Your vehicle must display your Company Name and your CPCN Number (e.g., CPCN 1234) on both sides of the power unit.
9. Can I operate without a CPCN?
No. Operating without a CPCN is a misdemeanor in Nevada. It can result in significant fines and the immediate impoundment of your vehicle.
10. Do I need a USDOT number?
Yes. All commercial motor carriers in Nevada generally need a USDOT number for safety tracking, even if operating intrastate. You must comply with federal safety regulations.

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

Stop guessing. Hop on a quick 15-minute call with us. We’ll look at your current setup, identify your biggest bottlenecks, and give you an honest recommendation on how to grow.

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.

HOW WE HELP YOU GROW: Support for Every Stage of a Moving Company