The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Ohio

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

License Check: The "CPCN"

Do you understand that Ohio requires a special "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (CPCN) to move household goods?

Step 1: Federal & State Registration

You must register with both the FMCSA and PUCO.

US DOT #: Required even for intrastate moves. Apply via FMCSA.
Apply: Submit the Intrastate Registration Application via the PUCO Motor Carrier Portal.
Fees: You must pay registration fees based on your gross annual revenue.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Filing

Your agent must file these electronically with PUCO.

Liability: Min $750,000 (Form E).
Cargo: Min $20,000 per vehicle (Form H).
Note: PUCO will not issue your certificate until these forms are received.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Tariff Filing

You cannot legally charge customers without this.

Requirement: File a "Tariff" with the PUCO Docketing Division listing all rates and service terms.
Binding: You must charge exactly the rates listed in your tariff.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by PUCO consumer protection rules.

Documents: Must provide a written Estimate, Bill of Lading, and the "Know Your Rights" guide.
Markings: Truck must display Company Name, PUCO Number, and USDOT Number.

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Operating Without Authority: Fines range from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation for operating without a CPCN.
Renewal Rule: Household Goods carriers MUST renew their PUCO authority annually, even if they pay UCR fees.
Tariff Adherence: Charging a price not listed in your tariff is a major violation.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What is a CPCN?
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        The "Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (CPCN) is the official license issued by the PUCO that authorizes you to operate as a for-hire household goods carrier in Ohio. You cannot operate without it.
      
      2. Do I need a USDOT number?
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        Yes. All motor carriers operating in Ohio (even if you never cross state lines) must obtain a USDOT number from the FMCSA.
      
      3. What are the insurance requirements?
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        Household goods movers generally need $750,000 in Liability insurance and $20,000 in Cargo insurance per vehicle.
      
      4. What is a Tariff?
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        A tariff is a document listing your rates, charges, and service terms. You must file this with the PUCO Docketing Division. You are legally obligated to charge the specific rates listed in your tariff.
      
      5. How much are the fines?
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        Operating without a PUCO certificate can result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation, along with potential cease and desist orders.
      
      6. What insurance forms do I need?
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        Your insurance agent must file Form E (for Liability) and Form H (for Cargo) directly with the PUCO.
      
      7. Do I need to renew my license?
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        Yes. Unlike general freight carriers who are exempt if they pay UCR, household goods carriers must renew their authority annually with the PUCO.
      
      8. What documents must I give customers?
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        You must provide a written estimate, a bill of lading, and a document outlining their rights and responsibilities (often called the "Know Your Rights" guide).
      
      9. What markings must be on my truck?
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        Your vehicle must display your Company Name, your PUCO Number, and your USDOT Number on both sides of the power unit.
      
      10. Do I need a CDL?
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        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 26,000 lbs to avoid this, but you must check your specific vehicle's rating.

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