The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in North Carolina

A verified guide sourced exclusively from the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) and Public Staff.

Training Check: The "MRT" Seminar

Are you willing to travel to Raleigh (or attend virtually) for a mandatory training class?

Step 1: Application (Form CE-1)

Authority: North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC).

Form: Submit Form CE-1 ("Application for Certificate of Exemption").
Fee: $250.00 filing fee (Class A carrier).
Fingerprints: You must submit fingerprint cards for a criminal background check.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Insurance Filing

Your agent must file these directly with the NC DMV/NCUC.

Form E: Liability. Min $100k / $300k / $50k (under 26k lbs) or $750k (over 26k lbs).
Form H: Cargo. Min $35,000 per vehicle / $50,000 aggregate.
Gen Liability: $50,000 General Liability coverage is also required.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: The Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT)

You cannot set your own prices above the state max.

Subscribe: You must subscribe to the "Maximum Rate Tariff" (MRT).
Training: You MUST attend the MRT Training Seminar within 3 months of getting your certificate.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: Operational "Must Haves"

Required by NCUC regulations.

Brochure: Must provide "Moving in North Carolina: Your Rights and Responsibilities".
Estimates: Must be in writing (Commission-approved form).
Markings: Truck must display your "C-Number" (e.g., C-1234).

Mark Step 4 as Complete

The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

Seminar Rule: If you miss the mandatory training seminar, your certificate can be revoked.
C-Number Rule: You must display your C-Number in ALL advertising (website, business cards, flyers).
Weight Rule: Moves over 35 miles must be billed by Weight/Distance, not by the hour.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      1. What is a "Certificate of Exemption"?
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        Confusingly, this IS the license. In North Carolina, household goods movers apply for a "Certificate of Exemption" (Form CE-1) to get their operating authority. Once approved, you get a "C-Number" (e.g., C-1234).
      
      2. What is the Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT)?
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        The MRT is a state-issued document that sets the maximum prices you can charge for moving services. You cannot charge more than these rates. You must have a copy of the current MRT on file.
      
      3. Is the training seminar mandatory?
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        Yes. New carriers must attend a Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT) training seminar within three months of receiving their certificate. Failure to attend can result in the revocation of your authority.
      
      4. What are the insurance requirements?
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        You need $50,000 General Liability, Form H (Cargo) with $35k/$50k limits, and Form E (Vehicle Liability) with $100k/$300k/$50k limits (for trucks under 26k lbs).
      
      5. Can I do "Labor Only" without a license?
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        Technically, if you never transport the goods (the customer rents and drives the truck), you may not need an NCUC certificate. However, this is a grey area, and you cannot advertise as a "mover" or imply you provide transportation.
      
      6. How much is the application fee?
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        The filing fee for the application (Form CE-1) is $250.00. You should pay via check or money order made out to the NC Department of Commerce/Utilities Commission.
      
      7. Can I charge by the hour?
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        Only for local moves (typically 35 miles or less). For moves over 35 miles, the MRT requires you to charge based on Weight and Distance, not time.
      
      8. What brochure must I give customers?
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        You must provide the NCUC booklet titled "Moving in North Carolina: Your Rights and Responsibilities." This explains the tariff, insurance, and claims process to the consumer.
      
      9. Do I need to be fingerprinted?
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        Yes. The application requires you to submit fingerprint cards for a criminal history check. Certain convictions may affect your ability to get certified.
      
      10. What is a "C-Number"?
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        Your "C-Number" is your official operating license number (e.g., C-123). You are legally required to display this number in all advertising (web, print, social media) and on the side of your truck.

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.