Moving in Arkansas: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Arkansas — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Arkansas?
Arkansas Department of Transportation – Legal Division (Motor Carrier) (ARDOT)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with ARDOT.
How to file a complaint in Arkansas
Online: https://www.ardot.gov
Phone: 1-501-569-2000
Mail: Arkansas DOT, Legal Division, P.O. Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 72203
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Arkansas
- For-hire intrastate movers must obtain a Household Goods Carrier Permit (Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity)
- Operating without authority is a misdemeanor; vehicles may be impounded
- Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act enforced by AG Consumer Protection
Key statutes & rules
- Arkansas Motor Carrier Act of 1955
- ARDOT Rule 13.1 (insurance requirements)
ARDOT regulates intrastate household goods carriers. No public online searchable database; verify authority by contacting ARDOT Motor Carrier Licensing.
Example estimates in Arkansas: low, average, high
Studio (low) through 4-bedroom (high), computed with the same model as the ReloFig calculators — not hand-written. Your own move will differ.
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 Arkansas
Sample city estimates in Arkansas
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Little Rock → | $452 – $1,598 |
| Fort Smith → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Fayetteville → | $527 – $1,859 |
Formula & data sources
Sources: BLS OES mover wages; published mover rate surveys. Compiled August 2025.
When to use this estimate
- Use this for a local or in-town move within Arkansas that a mover bills by the hour.
- Crossing state lines? Use the Long-Distance Move calculator — interstate work is priced by linehaul miles, not hours.
- Need a written budget? Print our Local Budget Worksheet and Scam Card for walkthroughs.
Frequently asked questions
Who regulates intrastate movers in Arkansas?
Arkansas Department of Transportation – Legal Division (Motor Carrier) (ARDOT) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Arkansas. Verify a mover at https://www.ardot.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Arkansas?
File online via the state portal (https://www.ardot.gov), or by phone at 1-501-569-2000. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Arkansas?
For-hire intrastate movers must obtain a Household Goods Carrier Permit (Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity) Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Arkansas?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $527–$1,859, scaled by home size and local cost of living. These are model figures, not quotes — confirm with licensed movers' written estimates.
Do I need a permit for a local move in Arkansas?
A moving permit is usually not required for the move itself, but parking/loading permits for the truck may be required by the city or building. Check with your city and building management before move day.
Sources: www.ahtd.ar.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.