Moving in Texas: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Texas — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Texas?
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Motor Carrier Division (TxDMV)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: Maximum 20% of estimate may be collected as deposit per TxDMV (verify current rule).
How to file a complaint in Texas
Online: https://www.txdmv.gov/about-us/contact-us/file-complaint
Phone: 1-888-368-5231
Mail: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Motor Carrier Division, 125 E. 11th St, Austin, TX 78701
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Texas
- Movers must hold an active TxDMV certificate (formerly 'TxDOT number')
- Written proposal (binding or not-to-exceed) before loading; contract before and at delivery
- Nonbinding estimate may not be exceeded by more than 110% at delivery (verify: confirm current TxDMV rule)
- 90 days to file damage claims
Key statutes & rules
- Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2301 (Prohibited Practices)
- TxDMV intrastate Household Goods Carrier Certificate required
Texas regulates intrastate household goods movers through TxDMV (not TxDOT). Verify mover status in the 'Truck Stop' database. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA.
Example estimates in Texas: 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 Texas
Sample city estimates in Texas
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
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 Texas 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 Texas?
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Motor Carrier Division (TxDMV) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Texas. Verify a mover at https://www.txdmv.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Texas?
File online via the state portal (https://www.txdmv.gov/about-us/contact-us/file-complaint), or by phone at 1-888-368-5231. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Texas?
Movers must hold an active TxDMV certificate (formerly 'TxDOT number') Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Texas?
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 Texas?
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.txdmv.gov www.txdmv.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.