Moving in Ohio: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Ohio — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Ohio?
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with PUCO.
How to file a complaint in Ohio
Online: https://puco.ohio.gov
Phone: 1-800-686-7826
Mail: PUCO, 180 E. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Ohio
- Movers must register and obtain a PUCO HHG Certificate
- Minimum insurance: $350,000 BI/PD + $20,000 cargo per vehicle
- Written estimate and bill of lading with charge breakdown required
- Tariff filing required
Key statutes & rules
- Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 4901:2-19 (Household Goods Motor Carriers)
- Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4901 / 4921 (PUCO authority)
Ohio regulates intrastate household goods movers through PUCO. The HHG certificate number appears as e.g. '143772 HG'.
Typical local move cost in Ohio
Local move estimate for Midwest region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $287 – $918 |
| 1 bed | $372 – $1,317 |
| 2 bed | $543 – $1,916 |
| 3 bed | $714 – $2,514 |
| 4 bed | $885 – $3,113 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × Midwest factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Ohio
Sources: puco.ohio.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.