Moving in Colorado: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Colorado — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Colorado?
Colorado Public Utilities Commission (CO PUC)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No statutory deposit cap identified; verify with CO PUC.
How to file a complaint in Colorado
Online: https://puc.colorado.gov/movers
Phone: 1-303-894-2070
Mail: Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Colorado
- All movers must hold a PUC permit beginning with 'HHG' and display it in ads and on vehicles
- Written estimate and contract required before the move
- Mover may not withhold property to enforce a lien if unregistered
- State arbitration process available for disputes
Key statutes & rules
- Colorado Revised Statutes §§ 40-14-101 et seq. (Household Goods Movers)
- Requires PUC registration, written contract, and Consumer Advisement
CO PUC is the primary regulator of household goods movers. Annual registration fee $300; fingerprint background checks required for principals/drivers.
Example estimates in Colorado: 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 West region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $322 – $1,027 |
| 1 bed | $419 – $1,481 |
| 2 bed | $613 – $2,161 |
| 3 bed | $808 – $2,842 |
| 4 bed | $1,002 – $3,522 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × West factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Colorado
Sample city estimates in Colorado
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Denver → | $613 – $2,161 |
| Colorado Springs → | $613 – $2,161 |
| Aurora → | $613 – $2,161 |
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 Colorado 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 Colorado?
Colorado Public Utilities Commission (CO PUC) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Colorado. Verify a mover at https://puc.colorado.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Colorado?
File online via the state portal (https://puc.colorado.gov/movers), or by phone at 1-303-894-2070. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Colorado?
All movers must hold a PUC permit beginning with 'HHG' and display it in ads and on vehicles Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Colorado?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $613–$2,161, 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 Colorado?
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: puc.colorado.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.