Moving in Missouri: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Missouri — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Missouri?
Missouri Department of Transportation – Motor Carrier Services (MoDOT)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with MoDOT.
How to file a complaint in Missouri
Online: https://www.modot.org
Phone: 1-866-275-6636
Mail: MoDOT, Motor Carrier Services, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Missouri
- Movers must hold a MoDOT intrastate operating authority number
- Complaints handled through MoDOT / MO Attorney General
Key statutes & rules
- Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 390 (motor carriers)
- MoDOT number required for intrastate household goods movers
Missouri regulates intrastate household goods movers through MoDOT.
Example estimates in Missouri: 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 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 Missouri
Sample city estimates in Missouri
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Kansas City → | $543 – $1,916 |
| St. Louis → | $543 – $1,916 |
| Springfield → | $543 – $1,916 |
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 Missouri 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 Missouri?
Missouri Department of Transportation – Motor Carrier Services (MoDOT) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Missouri. Verify a mover at https://www.modot.org. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Missouri?
File online via the state portal (https://www.modot.org), or by phone at 1-866-275-6636. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Missouri?
Movers must hold a MoDOT intrastate operating authority number Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Missouri?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $543–$1,916, 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 Missouri?
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.modot.org www.movingcompanyreviews.com . ReloFig does not sell your information.