How to Become a Mover in United States
Becoming a mover in United States follows a single nationally recognised pathway. Below is the licensing body, the step-by-step checklist, the typical timeline and what you can expect to earn.
Mover careers in United States
The US moving industry is regulated at both the federal and state level. Interstate movers must register with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and obtain a USDOT number and MC (Motor Carrier) operating authority. Intrastate movers are regulated by state agencies — requirements vary widely, from strict licensing in states like California and Texas to minimal requirements in others.
The median annual wage for moving workers is about $37,040, with experienced crew leads and CDL drivers earning $45,000–$60,000+. Moving company owners can earn significantly more — a small company with 2–3 trucks can generate $500,000–$1 million+ in annual revenue.
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