Licensed Movers in Los Angeles: What to Check Before You Say Yes

If you’re moving in Los Angeles, it can feel like there are more moving companies than palm trees. Everyone has a truck, everyone is “the best,” and everyone claims to be “licensed and insured.”

But here’s the hard truth: in LA, not every “mover” is actually a legal, licensed mover.

I’ve helped a lot of people move with United Prime Van Lines, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard the same horror stories about no-shows or held-hostage belongings. That’s exactly why I want to walk you, step by step, through what to check when you’re hiring licensed movers in Los Angeles—so you can avoid the drama.

Why Licensing Really Matters

In California, professional movers must be licensed by the CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission). This isn’t just a formality.

A licensed mover is required to:

• Carry specific types of insurance.
• Follow California’s rate and contract rules.
• Provide written estimates and official documents.
• Handle claims within certain timelines.

Unlicensed movers don’t have to do any of that. If something goes wrong, you have almost no protection.

Step 1: Verify the CPUC License

First thing I always tell people in LA: don’t skip the license check. Ask the mover for their California CPUC license number (usually "CAL-T ######" or "MTR ######").

How to Check:

1. Go to the CPUC’s “MoveSmart” consumer page.
2. Enter the company name or license number.
3. Confirm the company is Active and the address matches their website.

Red Flag: If they refuse to give you the number, run.

Step 2: Check Federal Registration (Interstate Moves)

If you are moving from Los Angeles to another state, you need a mover with federal authority.

1. Ask for the USDOT number and MC number.
2. Go to the FMCSA website (Company Snapshot).
3. Confirm the status is ACTIVE and authorized for "Interstate."

If you are planning a long-distance move, check our Long-Distance Moving Services.

Step 3: Confirm Real Insurance

"Licensed and insured" is a common phrase, but what does it mean?

1. Liability Coverage In California, movers must offer Basic Coverage ($0.60/lb). Reputable movers also offer Full Value Protection (FVP) for an extra cost.

• Ask: "What are the limits and deductibles on your FVP plan?"

2. Worker’s Compensation If a mover gets hurt on your property and the company doesn't have worker's comp, you could be liable. Always ask for proof of insurance, especially for office moves.

• See more on our Commercial Moving Services.

Step 4: Analyze the Estimate

A real licensed mover in Los Angeles is required to give you a written estimate.

• Non-Binding: An estimated cost based on weight/time. Can change.
• Binding: A fixed price.

Check the Details: Does it list the addresses, date, number of movers, and specific services (packing, stairs)? If the quote is just a text message saying "$800," it's not valid.

Step 5: Understand Extra Charges in LA

LA is built to generate extra fees. A licensed mover should be transparent about them.

Ask about:

• Stairs: Is there a fee per flight?
• Long Carry: If the truck can't park close, is there a fee for the distance?
• Shuttle Truck: Required for narrow hillside streets where a semi-truck won't fit.

Step 6: Read Reviews (The Smart Way)

Don't just look at the star rating. Look for patterns in recent reviews.

• Do they mention hidden fees?
• Are they consistently late?
• How does the company respond to complaints?

Step 7: Carrier vs. Broker

• Carrier: Owns the trucks and employs the movers.
• Broker: A middleman who sells your move to someone else.

Ask: "Are you the actual company that will perform my move?" When you book with United Prime Van Lines for a Local Move, you are booking us, not a random third party.

Step 8: Paper Trail

A legitimate mover has a real business address (not a P.O. Box) and consistent branding across their website, truck, and paperwork. Check their address on Google Maps to ensure it's a real office or warehouse.

Step 9: Ask About Packing & Fragile Items

Licensed movers follow standards of care.

• Ask: "How do you handle TVs and glass?"
• Look For: Blankets, shrink wrap, and disassembly tools.
• Check out our Full-Service Packing options.

Step 10: Deposits & Payment

• Reasonable: A small deposit to reserve the date.
• Red Flag: Demanding 50% or 100% cash upfront.
• Written Policy: Get the refund/cancellation policy in writing.

Step 11: Get Official Documents

For California moves, you must receive:

1. Agreement for Moving Services.
2. Not-to-Exceed Price.
3. Inventory Sheet.

Don't let them load a single box until you have paperwork that matches your estimate.

The Checklist to Keep By the Phone

1. Licensing: Verified CPUC/USDOT numbers.
2. Insurance: Cargo liability and Worker's Comp confirmed.
3. Estimate: Written and detailed.
4. Identity: Confirmed Carrier (not Broker).
5. Services: Packing and specialty item handling discussed.
6. Payment: Deposit terms clear; credit cards accepted.

Making Your LA Move Less Stressful

When you choose a properly licensed mover and take 20 minutes to verify the details, you aren't being difficult—you’re protecting your home.

If you want help from a team that lives and breathes this stuff, that’s exactly what we do at United Prime Van Lines. We handle local LA moves, long-distance relocations, and everything in between with the licenses to back it up.

Contact us today to start your move the right way.