NC H311

Requires motor carriers of household goods to display their name or trade name and North Carolina Utilities Commission number on each side of their vehicles in letters at least 3 inches high, with the NC number also on the rear left upper quadrant.

Applies to all vehicles used by carriers (owned, rented, or leased), with rented/leased vehicles requiring "Operated By" designation unless under permanent lease.

Exempts carriers engaged only in interstate commerce; carriers in both interstate and intrastate commerce only need to display their NC number conspicuously near their name if already marked per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations.

Makes it unlawful for uncertified persons to represent themselves as authorized household goods carriers through oral, written, printed, or digital means (including vehicle placards, internet, business cards, etc.).

Establishes penalties of a Class 3 misdemeanor with fines up to $500 for first offense and up to $2,000 for subsequent offenses; allows Utilities Commission to assess civil penalties up to $5,000 for violations.

Becomes effective October 1, 2011.