Moving in Louisiana: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Louisiana — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Louisiana?
Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with LPSC.
How to file a complaint in Louisiana
Online: https://lpsc.la.gov/Carrier_HGM
Phone: 1-888-342-5717
Mail: Louisiana PSC, Transportation Division, P.O. Box 91154, Baton Rouge, LA 70821
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Louisiana
- Movers must hold an LPSC common carrier certificate and maintain a Louisiana permanent establishment
- Written estimate required before service (General Order July 12, 2013); waiver must be signed
- Surety bond ($5,000) and workers' comp required
- Complaints investigated by LPSC Transportation Division
Key statutes & rules
- Louisiana Revised Statutes 45:164(E) (intrastate household goods movers)
- Requires common carrier certificate; cargo insurance $50,000/truck, $100,000/catastrophe
LPSC strictly regulates intrastate household goods movers; certificate number must appear in advertising and on invoices.
Example estimates in Louisiana: 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 Louisiana
Sample city estimates in Louisiana
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| New Orleans → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Baton Rouge → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Shreveport → | $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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Louisiana. Verify a mover at https://lpsc.la.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Louisiana?
File online via the state portal (https://lpsc.la.gov/Carrier_HGM), or by phone at 1-888-342-5717. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Louisiana?
Movers must hold an LPSC common carrier certificate and maintain a Louisiana permanent establishment Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
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: lpsc.la.gov lpsc.louisiana.gov . ReloFig does not sell your information.