The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in New Mexico

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) and PRC Transportation Division.

Rate Check: The "Statewide Tariff"

In New Mexico, the state establishes the maximum rates you can charge. Do you agree to abide by the NMDOT tariff?

Step 1: Application (Certificate)

Authority: NM Department of Transportation (NMDOT) / PRC.

Apply: Submit the "Application for Certificate for Household Goods".
Fee: You must pay the filing fee (check current packet for exact amount, often ~$250).
Fit & Able: You must prove financial fitness and safety compliance.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance & Tax ID

Your agent must file these directly with the state.

Liability: Typically $750,000 to $1,000,000 for general freight/HHG vehicles.
Cargo: $5,000 to $10,000 minimum cargo coverage.
Tax ID: You must obtain a New Mexico CRS (Taxpayer ID) Number.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Statewide Tariff Adoption

You do not write your own tariff in NM.

Adoption: You must sign a document agreeing to use the "Statewide Household Goods Tariff" established by NMDOT.
Rates: This tariff sets the maximum rates you can charge. You cannot exceed them.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by NM Administrative Code (NMAC).

Estimates: Must be written. Non-binding estimates are subject to the 110% Rule.
Inventory: A descriptive inventory of goods is mandatory.
Weight Tickets: For distance moves, you must obtain certified weight tickets.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

110% Rule: If the final bill exceeds a non-binding estimate, the customer only pays estimate + 10% on delivery. You must wait 30 days for the rest.
Leasing: If you lease trucks, you must file the lease agreement with NMDOT.
Weight & Distance: New Mexico strictly enforces weight/distance tax (WDT) for vehicles over 26,000 lbs.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. Who regulates movers in NM?
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        Historically, it was the Public Regulation Commission (PRC). As of July 1, 2024, many duties transferred to the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT). You will likely interact with the NMDOT Transportation Division for your certificate.
      
      2. What license do I need?
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        You need a "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (often just called a Certificate or Warrant) for Household Goods. You cannot operate legally with just a business license.
      
      3. What is the Statewide Tariff?
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        Unlike other states where you file your own rates, New Mexico establishes a "Statewide Tariff" that sets the maximum rates for all movers. You must charge at or below these state-mandated caps.
      
      4. What is the 110% Rule?
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        If you provide a non-binding estimate, you cannot require the customer to pay more than the estimate plus 10% at the time of delivery. You must deliver the goods and give them 30 days to pay any remaining balance.
      
      5. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. New Mexico requires intrastate carriers to register for a USDOT number with the FMCSA. This number is used for safety tracking and audits.
      
      6. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You generally need $750,000 to $1,000,000 in Auto Liability insurance and $5,000 to $10,000 in Cargo insurance. Filings must be submitted directly to the state (Form E/H).
      
      7. Can I charge for travel time?
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        Yes, usually. The Statewide Tariff allows for specific travel charges (e.g., portal-to-portal), but you must strictly follow the rules laid out in that document.
      
      8. Do I need to weigh the truck?
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        Yes, for moves over a certain distance (typically >50 miles), you must obtain certified weight tickets (Tare and Gross) to determine the transportation charge.
      
      9. Can I hold goods hostage?
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        No. If the customer pays the non-binding estimate + 10%, you MUST release the goods. Holding them for additional payment is a violation of New Mexico law.
      
      10. What is the Weight Distance Tax?
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        If you operate vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVW, you must register for the New Mexico Weight Distance Tax (WDT) and file quarterly reports based on the miles traveled in the state.

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