Dictionary

Carrier

What a motor carrier is in household-goods moving and how the role differs from a broker.

Published 4 Sep 2026 · Updated 4 Sep 2026. Sources, scope and corrections

TRE Dictionary

Carrier

A carrier is the transportation provider responsible for transporting household goods under applicable operating authority and contract terms.

In plain English

The carrier is the company that performs the transportation service, rather than simply arranging for another company to move the shipment.

Why it matters

Consumers frequently confuse carriers and brokers even though their operating roles are different. FMCSA's consumer guidance distinguishes the mover that transports the household goods from the broker that arranges the service.

TRE common-language definition

Carrier: The authorized transportation provider responsible for performing the physical movement of a household-goods shipment.

Broker · Motor Carrier · Bill of Lading · Interstate Move · Shipper

Sources & Evidence

The Relocation Ecosystem provides educational information and does not provide legal advice.

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Carrier

In plain English

Why it matters

TRE common-language definition

Related terms

Sources & Evidence

What does your experience add?

Read more

A Loved One’s Belongings After a Death: Where to Start

The Anatomy of a Move: What Happens, Who Is Responsible, and What Comes Next

Can Someone Help Pay for My Move? A Guide to Relocation and Moving Assistance

Apartment and Rental Moving Checklist: Parking, Elevators, Access and Handover