The Official Roadmap to Starting a Moving Company in Texas

A verified guide sourced exclusively from TxDMV and FMCSA regulations.

Quick Check: Do you need a Commercial License (CDL)?

Will you operate a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 26,000 lbs?

Step 1: Business Formation

Before the truck moves, the paperwork must be filed.

Entity: Register LLC or Corp with Secretary of State.
Tax: Set up Franchise Tax account with the Comptroller.
DBA: If using a different name, file an Assumed Name Certificate.

Mark Step 1 as Complete

Step 2: Federal Registration (USDOT)

Required even if you stay within Texas.

Apply: Visit FMCSA to get your USDOT number.
Selection: Choose "Intrastate" if you do not cross state lines.
Cost: Free.

Mark Step 2 as Complete

Step 3: Insurance Filing

You cannot upload this yourself. Your agent must file Form E, H, or I online.

Liability: Min $300k (under 26k lbs) or $500k (over 26k lbs).
Cargo: Min $5,000 per vehicle.

Mark Step 3 as Complete

Step 4: TxDMV Operating Authority

The final license to operate legally.

System: Apply via TxDMV eLINC.
Fees: ~$200 - $300 depending on fleet size.
Type: Select "Household Goods Carrier."

Mark Step 4 as Complete

Step 5: The "Must Haves"

Don't skip these operational requirements.

Tariff: File your rates with TxDMV.
Contracts: Proposals must be "Binding" or "Not-To-Exceed".
Markings: Put TxDMV # and USDOT # on both sides of the truck cab.

Mark Step 5 as Complete

⚠️ The "Don't Get Fined" Zone

The Brochure Rule: You MUST provide the "Your Rights and Responsibilities" brochure to every customer before loading.
The Tariff Rule: You cannot charge a price that isn't in your filed tariff.
The Estimate Rule: Verbal estimates are non-binding. You must provide a written proposal.

Official Government Portals

Frequently Asked Questions
      Do I need a USDOT number if I only move people within Texas?
      ▼
    
        Yes. Even if you never cross state lines, Texas requires all commercial movers to register for a USDOT number as an "Intrastate" carrier. It acts as your safety registration ID.
      
      What is the difference between a TxDMV Certificate and a USDOT number?
      ▼
    
        The USDOT number registers you for safety tracking (Federal level). The TxDMV Certificate (Household Goods Authority) is your legal license to operate as a business (State level). You are legally required to have both.
      
      Can I use a rental truck (like U-Haul) to start?
      ▼
    
        Yes, but strict rules apply. The rental truck must be covered by your commercial insurance (Form E). You must also temporarily attach magnetic signs with your Company Name, TxDMV #, and USDOT # to the rental cab doors.
      
      Do I need a Commercial Driver License (CDL)?
      ▼
    
        Only if your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is over 26,000 lbs. Many standard 26-foot moving trucks are designed to be exactly 26,000 lbs GVWR specifically so drivers do not need a CDL.
      
      How much does the insurance actually cost?
      ▼
    
        Costs vary based on location and driver history, but you should budget between $5,000 and $12,000 per year for a new authority with the required $300k Liability and $5k Cargo limits.
      
      What is a "Tariff" and why do I need one?
      ▼
    
        A Tariff is a legal document listing your rates, fees, and service terms. You must file this with TxDMV. It is illegal to charge a customer a price or fee that is not explicitly listed in your filed Tariff.
      
      What forms do I need for insurance?
      ▼
    
        You cannot file these yourself. Your insurance agent must file Form E (Liability) and Form H or I (Cargo) directly with the TxDMV online system (eLINC).
      
      Can I give a quote over the phone?
      ▼
    
        You can give a non-binding estimate over the phone, but before you load any goods, you must provide a written proposal.
      
      What is the "Rights and Responsibilities" brochure?
      ▼
    
         This is a mandatory document TxDMV requires you to give to every customer before the move begins. Failing to provide this is the most common fine issued to movers in Texas.
      
      How long does it take to get my license?
      ▼
    
        Once your application is submitted, fees are paid, and your insurance agent has filed the required forms, TxDMV usually issues the certificate within 1 to 3 weeks.
      
      Do I need to renew my license?
      ▼
    
        Yes. You can choose a 1-year or 2-year renewal cycle. Additionally, if your insurance coverage lapses for even one day, your license will be revoked immediately.
      
      Can I move someone to another state (like Oklahoma)?
      ▼
    
        Not with a TxDMV certificate. Crossing state lines requires "Interstate Authority" (MC Number) from the Federal government (FMCSA), which is a much more complex and expensive process.

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.

Why Moving Company Hustle Exists

Moving Company Hustle was built from real experience — not theory.
I’ve started small, scaled, made mistakes, fixed systems, and grown real moving companies. Everything shared here is built on what actually works in the field.