Moving in Texas: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Texas — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Texas?
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Motor Carrier Division (TxDMV)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: Maximum 20% of estimate may be collected as deposit per TxDMV (verify current rule).
How to file a complaint in Texas
Online: https://www.txdmv.gov/about-us/contact-us/file-complaint
Phone: 1-888-368-5231
Mail: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Motor Carrier Division, 125 E. 11th St, Austin, TX 78701
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Texas
- Movers must hold an active TxDMV certificate (formerly 'TxDOT number')
- Written proposal (binding or not-to-exceed) before loading; contract before and at delivery
- Nonbinding estimate may not be exceeded by more than 110% at delivery (verify: confirm current TxDMV rule)
- 90 days to file damage claims
Key statutes & rules
- Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2301 (Prohibited Practices)
- TxDMV intrastate Household Goods Carrier Certificate required
Texas regulates intrastate household goods movers through TxDMV (not TxDOT). Verify mover status in the 'Truck Stop' database. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA.
Typical local move cost in Texas
Local move estimate for South region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $278 – $893 |
| 1 bed | $361 – $1,279 |
| 2 bed | $527 – $1,859 |
| 3 bed | $692 – $2,438 |
| 4 bed | $858 – $3,018 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × South factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Texas
Sources: www.txdmv.gov www.txdmv.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.