Of all the things one must consider when getting a moving quote, it is important to be certain that when you choose a moving company, that you are making an informed decision. The following information pertains to ensuring that when you choose a moving company for your upcoming relocation, you should always ask for your mover’s D.O.T. number.
A D.O.T. number is assigned to a moving company when they register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and its purpose is to help identify the company and track their audits, inspections, compliance reviews, and crash investigations. All interstate moving and storage companies that transport cargo are required to be registered and obtain a D.O.T. number, and 32 out of 50 states require registration with a number even if they are intrastate (moving within the borders of a state) movers only. If the moving company exists solely as a broker or does not use vehicles to ship goods, then generally they do not need to acquire a D.O.T. number.
In order to receive a D.O.T. number, a first-time applicant is put through an 18-month probationary period before their registered status becomes permanent. During this trial period, the mover must pass a safety program. Per the FMCSA, “This program requires new entrants to pass a safety audit and maintain acceptable roadside safety performance”. You may ask your mover to provide their D.O.T. number for you, or you can look it up for yourself on the FMCSA website.
By obtaining your moving company’s D.O.T. number, you are protecting yourself from choosing a disreputable moving company. This number proves not only is your mover a licensed company, but that they also employ safe and responsible moving practices. It’s another small but important step to ensure that your move is handled with the utmost quality and care, and that you get what you pay for.
Wheaton Worldwide Van Lines is a fully licensed and credible interstate van line. Are you looking for an estimate? Request a free, in-home estimate!
