Hiring movers in California: permits, estimates and cost
For Silicon Valley homes · Updated October 2026 · Sources below
Movers who move household goods within California need a permit from the California Public Utilities Commission, shown as a Cal T number in their ads. Get a written estimate based on a look at your things - the CPUC says written estimates are binding and verbal ones aren't. Moving out of state? Those movers need a U.S. DOT number instead.
The short version
- In-state movers need a CPUC permit - look for the Cal T number
- Written estimates are binding; verbal and phone estimates aren't
- Basic coverage is only 60 cents per pound per item - consider more
- File loss or damage claims in writing within 9 months
- Interstate movers need a U.S. DOT number
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What it costs
- Local move (typical)$875 - $2,547
- Movers' hourly rate$30 - $80 an hour, per mover
- Long-distance move$2,700 - $10,000
National figures - Bay Area moves usually cost more. Home size, stairs, distance, packing and the date change the price.
Typical ranges from published cost guides - mostly national figures. Bay Area prices usually run higher. Your actual price depends on your home and the job, and a pro gives you the real number. Source: HomeAdvisor cost guide (national) (Jun 2026). Have a quote? Check it with the Quote Explainer
Before you book
- Check the permit: in-state movers show a Cal T number from the CPUC; interstate movers need a U.S. DOT number you can look up with FMCSA.
- Get written estimates from a few movers, based on a visual inspection of what you're moving.
- Read the Agreement for Moving Services and the Not-to-Exceed price before moving day.
- Decide how much protection you need - basic coverage pays only 60 cents per pound per item.
In Silicon Valley
- California: household goods movers working within the state must hold a CPUC permit, and the CPUC tells consumers to avoid movers whose ads don't show their Cal T number.
- California: the mover must give you the CPUC's "Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods" booklet at the first in-person contact - if they don't, you may be eligible for a $100 refund.
- California: the mover must give you the Agreement for Moving Services at least 3 days before moving day, unless you waive it or booked less than 3 days ahead. A Not-to-Exceed price must be written on it before the move begins.
- Moving out of California? Interstate movers are regulated by the federal FMCSA, need a U.S. DOT number, and must give you the booklet "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move."
Questions homeowners ask
How do I know if a moving company is licensed in California?
Movers who move household goods within California need a permit from the California Public Utilities Commission. Look for the Cal T number in their ads and on their paperwork, and check it with the CPUC before you book. The CPUC advises avoiding movers that don't show one.
Is a moving estimate binding in California?
The CPUC says written estimates are binding on the mover and verbal ones aren't. A written estimate must be based on looking at your things and show total charges. The mover must also set a Not-to-Exceed price on the Agreement before the move begins.
How much do movers cost?
National cost guides put a typical local move at about $875 to $2,547, with movers charging about $30 to $80 an hour each. Long-distance moves run about $2,700 to $10,000. Bay Area prices usually run higher.
What if the movers break something?
Basic coverage pays only 60 cents per pound per item, so a 20-pound TV would get just $12. You can buy more coverage on the Agreement for Moving Services. File any claim in writing within 9 months; the mover must acknowledge it within 30 days and pay, deny or offer a settlement within 60 days.
What's different about moving out of state?
Interstate moves are regulated by the federal FMCSA, not the CPUC. The mover needs a U.S. DOT number and must give a written estimate. With a non-binding estimate, you only have to pay 110% of the estimate at delivery to get your things - the rest is billed later.
Questions to ask the pro
- What's your Cal T number (or U.S. DOT number for out-of-state moves)?
- Can you give me a written estimate after seeing my things?
- What's the Not-to-Exceed price, and what could add to it?
- What coverage options do you offer beyond 60 cents per pound?
- Are packing, stairs, long carries and materials included?
Before you sign, check the contractor's license at cslb.ca.gov. How to hire a contractor in California
Need a moving company?
Tell us about the job in 2 minutes - free. We send it to one local pro at a time, never a crowd.
Related answers
Sources
- California Public Utilities Commission - Important Information for People Moving Household Goods
- FMCSA - Steps to select a mover
- FMCSA - Estimating charges (binding and non-binding estimates)
General information for Silicon Valley homeowners, not professional advice for your home. Rules and programs change - check the source, and have a licensed pro look at your situation.