Moving in Pennsylvania: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Pennsylvania — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PA PUC)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with PA PUC.
How to file a complaint in Pennsylvania
Online: https://www.puc.pa.gov
Phone: 1-800-692-7380
Mail: PA Public Utility Commission, P.O. Box 3265, Harrisburg, PA 17105
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Pennsylvania
- Movers must be licensed by the PA PUC
- Moving company status available through PUC website
- Complaints handled by the PA PUC Bureau of Consumer Services
Key statutes & rules
- Pennsylvania Public Utility Code (66 Pa.C.S.) – household goods movers
- PUC certificate / license required
Pennsylvania regulates intrastate household goods movers through the PUC.
Example estimates in Pennsylvania: 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 Northeast region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $332 – $1,061 |
| 1 bed | $433 – $1,531 |
| 2 bed | $635 – $2,237 |
| 3 bed | $836 – $2,942 |
| 4 bed | $1,038 – $3,648 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × Northeast factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Pennsylvania
Sample city estimates in Pennsylvania
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia → | $635 – $2,237 |
| Pittsburgh → | $635 – $2,237 |
| Allentown → | $635 – $2,237 |
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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PA PUC) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Pennsylvania. Verify a mover at https://www.puc.pa.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Pennsylvania?
File online via the state portal (https://www.puc.pa.gov), or by phone at 1-800-692-7380. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Pennsylvania?
Movers must be licensed by the PA PUC Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Pennsylvania?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $635–$2,237, 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 Pennsylvania?
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.puc.pa.gov www.mymovingreviews.com . ReloFig does not sell your information.