Moving in South Dakota: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in South Dakota — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in South Dakota?
South Dakota Department of Public Safety – Motor Carrier (SD DPS)
- License required (intrastate): No / minimal
- Deposit cap: No state deposit cap; South Dakota does not license intrastate movers.
How to file a complaint in South Dakota
Online: https://dps.sd.gov
Phone: 1-605-773-3201
Mail: SD Department of Public Safety, 500 E. Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in South Dakota
- South Dakota does not require a local mover license; movers need only a USDOT number and insurance
- Complaints to SD DPS Motor Carrier or SD Attorney General Consumer Protection
Key statutes & rules
- No dedicated state household goods mover license for intrastate moves
- Movers must carry a USDOT number; general business registration applies
South Dakota is deregulated for intrastate household goods movers; no state license required.
Example estimates in South Dakota: 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 South Dakota
Sample city estimates in South Dakota
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Sioux Falls → | $543 – $1,916 |
| Rapid City → | $543 – $1,916 |
| Aberdeen → | $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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota?
South Dakota Department of Public Safety – Motor Carrier (SD DPS) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within South Dakota. Verify a mover at https://dps.sd.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in South Dakota?
File online via the state portal (https://dps.sd.gov), or by phone at 1-605-773-3201. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in South Dakota?
South Dakota does not require a local mover license; movers need only a USDOT number and insurance Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in South Dakota?
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 South Dakota?
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.movers.com www.moverbase.com . ReloFig does not sell your information.