You'll see the phrase "licensed and insured" on just about every moving company's website. But what does that actually mean in Georgia? The specific credential that matters for household moves within the state is the Georgia HHG license — Household Goods carrier authority issued by the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Here's what's behind that license and why it should factor into any hiring decision.
What the Georgia HHG License Is
The Georgia HHG license is issued by the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) and grants a company the legal authority to transport household goods for compensation within the state of Georgia. It's not optional — any company moving household goods intrastate for hire is required by law to hold this license. Operating without it is illegal, and doing so puts customers at significant risk.
To obtain and maintain a Georgia HHG license, a company must demonstrate proof of insurance meeting state minimums, hold a valid USDOT number, and comply with applicable state regulations on estimates, contracts, and consumer rights. It's a baseline of accountability — not a guarantee of quality, but a meaningful filter that eliminates unlicensed operators entirely.
What It Means for You as a Customer
When a company holds a Georgia HHG license, it means there's a regulatory body — the Georgia DPS — with jurisdiction over how they operate. If a licensed company mishandles your belongings, presents a fraudulent estimate, or refuses to release your goods, you have a formal complaint channel available. With an unlicensed operator, you typically don't.
It also means the company has a real business identity that can be verified. License numbers are on record. Insurance has been documented. There's accountability attached to the work they do. That's not a small thing when you're trusting someone with everything you own.
Georgia HHG license is required for any for-hire household goods mover operating within the state · Issued by the Georgia Department of Public Safety — not self-certified · Requires valid insurance and a USDOT number as part of licensure · Creates a formal complaint and oversight mechanism if problems arise · Can be verified by asking for the license number and confirming with Georgia DPS
How to Verify a Georgia HHG License
Ask any moving company you're considering for their Georgia HHG license number before you book. A legitimate company will provide it without hesitation. You can then verify the license through the Georgia DPS to confirm it's active and in good standing. This takes minutes and gives you real confirmation you're dealing with a legal operator.
Bears Moving Co. holds Georgia HHG license #9320. We're happy to provide that number to any customer who asks, and we think you should ask every mover you consider — because the ones who don't have it will either change the subject or make something up.
Call us: (404) 514-4814 · Mon–Sat, 8am–6pm · Licensed GA HHG #9320 · BBB A+