Is a moving company “licensed”?
It would be more accurate to say that a moving company is “certificated”. This means that a company which has been issued a certificate and has the authority to move household goods. Stevens’ certificate entitles us to move household goods between any of the 50 states. A local moving company affiliated with a national company, such as Stevens Worldwide Van Lines, may have its own certificate of authority to move shipments within certain geographical areas. When moving, you will receive and sign two important documents – the “Order for Service” and “Bill of Lading”. Each of these will clearly identify on whose operating authority (certificate) your shipment is being moved.
It would be more accurate to say that a moving company is “registered.” For example, Mayflower has been issued a certificate of authority by the federal government to move household goods among any of the 50 states. As a motor carrier, Mayflower has maintained a certificate of authority with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) since September 27, 1988. A local moving company (“agency”) affiliated with a national van line such as Mayflower may also be registered with the DOT to move interstate shipments within certain geographical areas.
