Consumer Notice

The media has uncovered the fact that there are moving companies OPERATING outside the rules and regulations as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) and the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Failure of a mover to act within the framework established for the industry puts the reputation of the industry in jeopardy as well as posing an increased risk to the value of your household goods! You have a right to the absolute protection of your household goods by knowing the following about your mover:

In 1995, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) assumed responsibility for the moving industry, responding to a plethora of consumer complaints regarding 'rogue' movers, 'internet' movers 'post box' movers and moving brokers. In 2003, the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) requested that the FMCSA require movers to identify themselves with a location and a telephone number in lieu of a post office box number as a means to help protect the shipper and the reputation and good will of reputable and legitimate movers.

*  Legitimate movers are bonded and are required to maintain the proper insurances: cargo liability, automotive, & worker's compensation. A shipper has the right to request a Certificate of Insurance from a mover for any or all of the insurances listed here.

*  Legitimate movers advertising interstate moving are registered with the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and have been assigned an official DOT# to demonstrate this service. Your mover should be listed on the following website: www.safer.fmcsa.dot.gov

*  Legitimate movers who sell storage are required to provide proof for that right by a demonstrated location and they are required to carry warehouseman's legal liability & property liability insurances. Additionally, it is important that a shipper visit the designated storage facility, assuring the facility is clean, organized, and secure.

*  Legitimate movers abide by the same rules and regulations as national moving companies when hiring employees to service local shippers. This means your mover has willingly authorized a review of his/her personal record by the Criminal History System's Board. The resulting Criminal Offender's Record Information (CORI) enables the employer to sanctify employment.