New Federal Requirements for Long Island to Florida Moves: What 2025 Interstate Moving Regulations Mean for Your Relocation

Moving from Long Island to Florida has never been more popular, but 2025 brings significant changes to federal interstate moving regulations that every consumer should understand before planning their relocation. Unlike local relocations, interstate moves are subject to federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and recent updates are reshaping how these long-distance moves are conducted and regulated.

Key 2025 Federal Regulatory Changes

The most significant change for 2025 is the elimination of Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, with all carriers now using USDOT numbers as their sole identifier effective October 1, 2025. This change will simplify the registration process, streamline identification, improve the user experience, and incorporate enhanced verification tools.

Additionally, certified medical examiners must now upload DOT driver physical exam results directly to the FMCSA’s online national registry within 24 hours of the exam, improving accuracy and reducing fraud in the industry. New English language proficiency requirements also took effect on June 25, 2025, with drivers who can’t speak or read sufficient English being put out of service during inspections.

Enhanced Consumer Protections for Interstate Moves

All interstate movers must be FMCSA-registered and carry a USDOT number, and movers cannot charge more than 110% of a non-binding estimate at the time of delivery, with any attempt to increase charges beyond this limit violating federal regulations. Moving companies are legally required to provide consumers with the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet.

For Long Island to Florida relocations specifically, the journey spans approximately 1,200–1,400 miles and takes about 18–22 hours by truck, making proper federal oversight crucial for consumer protection. Moving companies must deliver your shipment within a “reasonable dispatch” period, and you may be entitled to compensation if your items are significantly delayed without cause.

Insurance and Liability Coverage Requirements

Federal law mandates that movers provide two levels of liability coverage, with Released Value Protection offering $0.60 per pound per item (which is insufficient for high-value assets), while Full-Value Protection offers replacement, repair or reimbursement at market value. The FMCSA also allows you to purchase supplemental insurance from third-party providers.

For valuable items common in Long Island homes moving to Florida, such as antiques, artwork, or pianos, understanding these coverage options is essential for adequate protection during your interstate relocation.

Choosing a Compliant Moving Company

When selecting a moving company long island residents can trust for their Florida relocation, verification of federal compliance is crucial. Dunbar Moving is a full-service, fully licensed and insured moving company located in Stony Brook, New York, with experienced team members who are seasoned professionals with a thirty-year track record of local moving. The company holds New York State license number 12946 and USDOT number 1545836, which can be verified through the New York Department of Transportation website.

Licensed companies like Dunbar Moving maintain all required licensing and insurance for moving services throughout Suffolk County, with comprehensive insurance coverage that protects your items from pickup to delivery. Their experienced team members are seasoned professionals with a combined thirty-years of experience in moving and are fully qualified & trained, with Long Island moving services that are second to none.

Dispute Resolution and Claims Process

Federal law requires movers to acknowledge a complaint within 30 days and resolve disputes within 120 days, and if the mover does not comply, you can report them through the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database. You must file a written claim with the mover within nine months of delivery, and your claim must be in writing but does not have to be submitted on a mover’s claim form.

Special Considerations for Long Island to Florida Moves

Florida’s hurricane season runs from June to November, so if moving during this time, consider weather conditions when scheduling your move. Many Florida apartment buildings and communities require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from movers, which compliant companies readily provide.

Interstate moving is regulated by federal laws and agencies like the FMCSA, and for interstate moves, you must ensure the company is federally licensed and insured. Interstate moves often have additional costs related to permits, tolls, and compliance with federal guidelines.

Preparing for Your Interstate Move

The interstate moving company should provide you with written estimates that clearly describe all charges for services the mover will perform, signed by the mover, and you should not accept oral estimates. Use only registered interstate moving companies that have been assigned a USDOT number and are registered with FMCSA to engage in interstate transportation of household goods with proper insurance.

The 2025 regulatory updates represent the most significant changes to interstate moving in recent years, with enhanced consumer protections, streamlined identification systems, and stricter compliance requirements. For Long Island residents planning a move to Florida, working with an established, properly licensed company that understands both the new federal requirements and the unique challenges of this popular relocation route is essential for a successful, stress-free move.

By staying informed about these new regulations and choosing a compliant moving company, you can ensure your Long Island to Florida relocation meets all federal requirements while protecting your belongings and your rights as a consumer throughout the moving process.