Moving Out of State From San Diego: Federal Rules, Brokers and Estimates
Interstate moves follow federal rules, and many of the companies you'll find online are brokers, not movers. Know which is which.
By Fast Easy Moving Editors · Updated
Two registrations to check
Interstate movers and brokers must be registered with FMCSA. Movers taking goods into or out of California also need a BHGS permit. Check both before you book.
FMCSA still issues MC numbers alongside USDOT numbers. It has said it's considering relying on the USDOT number alone, but that would require a rulemaking.
The booklets you should receive
Your mover must give you "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" and the "Ready to Move" brochure. If you never see them, that's a warning sign.
Estimates
A written estimate requires a physical survey, either on-site or by video, unless you waive it in writing.
- Binding estimate: a fixed price for the goods and services listed.
- Non-binding estimate: at delivery you pay no more than 110 percent of the estimate. Anything above that is billed later, after at least 30 days.
Broker or mover?
A broker arranges your move and hands it to a carrier. It doesn't own trucks. Brokers must be registered with FMCSA, give you both federal booklets, use only registered movers, base estimates on the actual mover's tariff, and identify themselves as brokers in their ads, with an MC number and physical address. Ask any company directly: "Will your trucks and crew move my things?"
Liability and claims
Full Value Protection is the default on interstate moves, at a minimum of $6.00 per pound of shipment weight. Released Value of 60 cents per pound applies only if you waive full value in writing. Claims are due within nine months of delivery.
Keep reading
In San Diego County? See our city guides for local permits and utilities.
Sources
Last checked October 2026.