MoversFax consumer education
Check the mover and USDOT number before you hire.
A number is useful only when it matches the company and role in your paperwork. Use this short process to identify the mover, verify the record source, and keep the limits of a public record in view.
Match the number to the company
Write down the legal name, DBA, phone number, and USDOT number shown on the estimate or contract. Compare those details with the company that contacted you and ask which company will physically transport your shipment.
A broker and a carrier can have different names and records. If more than one company appears, ask for each role and identifier in writing before paying a deposit.
- Legal name and any DBA
- USDOT number and company role
- Pickup, delivery, and claims contact
Read the record as context
Use FMCSA's consumer resources to understand what a carrier or broker record can tell you. Check that the result belongs to the same company you are considering, then compare the record with the written estimate and your conversations.
A record lookup is not a safety guarantee, approval, or prediction of your move. MoversFax is an independent, non-government research aid; it does not certify, endorse, or rank companies.
Sources and further reading
These official public sources support the practical points in this guide. Source pages can change; check the current source before you act.
- Steps to Select a MoverFMCSA's steps for researching a mover.
- Definitions of motor carrier, broker and freight forwarder authoritiesFMCSA's definitions of carrier and broker roles.
- Movers vs. BrokersFMCSA's explanation of the different company roles.
- Protect Your MoveFMCSA's central consumer resource.
Content reviewed 2026-08-24 ยท General information only
MoversFax is an independent information service, not a government agency. It does not certify, approve, or guarantee movers.