The Moving Planner Blog

When moving into a new apartment many people will look for a storage space. If you have just moved into town and are renting an apartment you wouldn’t want to unpack everything in an apartment which is only temporary. Personally I would prefer to unpack only the important necessary things which are needed for living temporarily till I move to my permanent apartment. For more information go to: http://www.flatrate.com/nyc_movers/storage.asp

 Different people store many different things. Here are some pointers on what many people store. 

Self Storage

There are many reasons why people need to store goods away for a period of time to be used at a later date. In today’s world people like as little clutter as possible in their homes. What better way to remove this clutter and still hold on to your valued possessions than self storage. Self storage offers a safe, secure and clean environment to store your goods. Generally 24 hour access to your goods is allowed and on site security with many offering CCTV is fast becoming the norm in this highly competitive industry. Most storage warehouses offer climate controlled options to store such environmentally sensitive items as books and fur coats. Books and all paper products are highly sensitive to high humidity levels and furs generally nee to be stored in the cold to prevent fur degradation. Couple all of these with sound pest control programs and you are talking with the standard service warehouse offer today.

What can I store?

Almost anything can be stored for a certain period of time in the correct environment. Perishable food is an exception to this and will not be accepted by a warehouse for storage. The following list gives you some idea of what items can be stored in the correct environment with no negative effects.

Computers
Home furnishings
Antiques
Furs– You may want to store summer garments in winter and vice versa
Linens
Mattresses
Electronic equipment
Musical instruments
Pianos

Homes are getting smaller and smaller and real estate prices are increasing all the time and because of this many people are downsizing and putting extra furnishing in to storage. You may just need to store items that you do not want or can not have in your home due to space constraints and public storage can be an excellent option in situations like this

Sometimes when people move, their household goods may need to be stored temporarily for a period of time. This can be due to many reasons including not having located a permanent home in the new city or town or deciding to do some remodeling before moving in to the new home. Sometimes people will decide to build a completely new home in the new city and if you decide to take this route you will need to have your furnishings out of the way while this is going on and storage is an obvious choice. If you are moving and you have household goods you need stored, your moving company may have a storage option available to you which may mean you will not need to seek outside self storage. It is best to check with your moving company to determine if this service is available and what the cost would be. An advantage to storing goods with your moving company is that the company will then deliver your goods and any other possessions when you are ready for them. You should also ask if you can go and collect any items from storage at any time and if you have to give any notice to do this. This may be especially important to businesses where important business records are being stored. The truck your business or household goods are transported in may be another storage option especially if you only need your goods stored for a few days. Be sure to back the trailer up to a wall so nobody can break in and park in a safe area.

Families today frequently have more than one vehicle and may have a boat also that needs to be stored in the winter months. You may not have a big yard and even if you do you may not be allowed to store your boat on your property. In some cities the local ordinance does not allow boats to be store in a residential neighborhood.

Many storage units are climate controlled, have 24 hours security and pest control programs that are the best in the industry, all in an effort to provide secure safe storage for your belongings. Goods can be stored for as long or as short a period as you need and spaces very in size so you can pick a space that will hold all your goods and not have to pay for unused space. If you use storage a lot it is advisable to get a space a little bigger than you actually need as you will probably fill it up pretty quickly.

Many storage operations offer a multitude of other service including truck rental or even a free truck for a period of time in order to get your business. Many companies have workers who will come to your home and pack up your goods professionally, load up a truck and drive it to the storage unit. They will then unload your goods and pack them in to the storage space efficiently. Remember these people are professionals and can do the job more effectively and efficiently than you may be able to. Of course this convenience come with a fee however it may be worth it for the peace of mind.

Important Questions to ask yourself before deciding to spend money on storage

At the time when you are making a decision on whether to store or not to store your goods, think about the other options that may be available to you. Do you really need all the items you are planning to put in to storage? Can you get rid of any without any regrets? Remember if you are moving that everything you get rid of now is something you won’t have to move yourself or pay to have moved. On the other hand you may need it someday! Ask yourself some questions before deciding whether you want to store particular items or not.

Do I need the item?
Will I ever use this item again?
When did I use it last?
Has it got sentimental value?
If any of the items need repair will you really have them repaired?
Clothing items – if you have not use any item will you really ever wear it again?

Throw away, Give away or Sell!

You may decide after answering the question above that you do not really need some of the items. The next big question is what to do with all this stuff. There are many options available to you. You could throw the stuff out, give it away to charity or have a garage sale.

Household items could go to charity organizations such as St Vincent de Paul or the Red Cross and any books could go to a local library or school. Remember to get a receipt for tax purposes.

If you decide to have a garage sale be sure and price the items so they will sell, remember that making a profit is secondary in this instance and getting rid of your junk is the primary reason for the sale. Here are some important points to remember as you plan your garage sale.

You may need a permit in some towns to have a garage sale
Have the sale on the weekend when people are off work- Saturday mornings are best
Put up sign around the neighborhood a few days before hand to let people when and where the sale is
If someone makes an offer less than the advertised price barter to bring the price up
Remember to tell neighbors relative and friends about the sale
Source:http://www.vanlines.com/storage_guide/self_storage.html

How to Find a Reputable Moving Company

By Tim Walker
MovingScam.com
Companies We Endorse

The following are the only companies officially endorsed by MovingScam.com at this time. Our endorsement is based on the positive experiences of many consumers who have used them.
You can move your cursor over the headings for a brief explanation of the two types of companies and then use the links below to read reviews of the companies.

You Pack We Drive Services:
ABF U-Pack - Read Reviews
Broadway Express - Read Reviews
 

Full Service Moving services:
Moovers, Inc. - Read Reviews
 
  

Moving is a very stressful and expensive experience, and if you don’t take precautions it can quickly turn into a nightmare. So how do you find a moving company that you can trust with everything that you own and feel safe in your decision? While we always recommend moving yourself if possible, or using a you-pack/we-drive service like ABF U-Pack Moving® or Broadway Express, we know that sometimes circumstances don’t allow that to work out. If that’s the situation that you’re in, here is some helpful advice to get you on the right track.

The first thing that you should do is put down your keyboard and step away from your computer. While there are some reputable moving companies that have web sites, nearly all of the victims that contact us found their moving company on the Internet.

Your next step is to pick up your phone book, or call your local real estate agents and find at least three moving companies that have offices in your area. Try to find moving companies that have been in business at least ten years, and do not hire a moving broker. Current consumer protection laws related to the movement of household goods only apply to Motor Carriers and not to Household Goods Brokers.

Set up appointments for them to come to your house and do an in-home estimate in the order of your least favorite to your most favorite company. If they won’t come to your house to do an in-home estimate, hang up and find another company. Find out up front if the company will be doing the move themselves, or if they will be sub-contracting out the job. If they won’t be moving you, then move on. You should also visit their office and make sure that the company is who they say they are. Check out their trucks and storage facility. Make sure that their trucks are permanently marked with the company’s name.

As each moving company gives you an estimate based on what they see in your home, leave the paperwork out where the next moving company can easily see it. Ask questions about the difference in pricing since it may have to do with what services one company provides that another doesn’t, the amount of insurance included, or valuation of your belongings. Never hire a mover who gives you a quote based on cubic feet. Never, ever sign blank paperwork, and know what you’re signing. Read the document, understand it and don’t worry about making the moving company wait.

You should know that every moving company is required by law to provide you with a “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. If they don’t provide you with this, send them packing (so to speak).

Also, while you have the sales rep’s attention, get as much information about the company that you can such as:

Full company name and any DBA names (doing business as)
How long they have been in business
Company address
Phone numbers (local and toll-free)
DOT and MC license numbers
Company web site address
Email addresses
Get references (and call them)

Now that you have your three estimates, it’s time to get back online. This is where the Internet is a powerful tool for the consumer, and where all of that information that you gathered pays off.

Many states make it easy to search for corporate information online, such as Florida. You can usually find them by searching google.com for your state’s name followed by “secretary of state” (example: Maryland secretary of state). If you can’t search online, then call your secretary of state’s office and ask for the articles of incorporation. You can use the Articles of Incorporation that you find to verify how long your moving company has been in business, as well as the company’s address and owner’s name.

Remember those DOT and MC license numbers that you wrote down? Well, it’s time to make sure that your moving company not only has the license authority to perform your move, but if they have the insurance to make it legal! Let’s start with SaferSys.org.

SaferSys is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) web site to search for motor carrier license information. First click on Company Snapshot in the center of the page. In the center of the next web page, you’ll see a search area. Put in your company’s DOT license number, and click ‘Search’. If the DOT number that they gave you is accurate (which it better be or it’s time to move on again) you’ll be presented with a screen with lots of information. Here are some key elements to the SaferSys report:

The company name, address, and phone numbers should match what the company gave you.
On the top right of the form, there is a field titled ‘Out of Service’. This must read ‘No’ and the ‘Out of Service Date’ field should read ‘None’.
The two fields labeled ‘Power Units’, and ‘Drivers’. This should give you a good indication of the size of the company. Here’s a thought… if your company told you that they do a hundred moves a month but they only have two trucks, how likely do you think that is?
Another field labeled ‘MCS-150 Form Date’ may contain the date that the license was applied for.
Next, under Operation Classification, there should be an X next to ‘Auth for Hire’.
Under Carrier Operation, if you are moving out of state there should be an X next to ‘Interstate’.
Under Cargo Carried, there should be at least an X next to Household Goods.
You should also check their inspection record. This lists their inspection record as well as the national average. If your company’s average is much higher than the national average, or if they have been in business for three years, but don’t have any inspections, then something is wrong.

Everything okay there? Good! Let’s check their insurance. At the bottom of the SaferSys report there is a link titled ‘FMCSA Licensing & Insurance site’. Click on it.

This should bring you to a screen that gives you two options to view the company’s insurance details. Let’s go the easier route and click on the button labeled ‘Screen’. Again, you’ll be presented with the moving company’s name, address, and legal name. There is also some very valuable information below:

Under the column ‘Authority Type’ there are three listings: Common, Contract, and Broker. The column to the right with the header ‘Authority Status’ tells you if their authority is active. Your mover needs to have at the very least ‘Common’ listed as active. If either ‘Application Pending’ or ‘Revocation Pending’ doesn’t say ‘NO’ for common authority, then something is wrong.
The last table lists the insurance required, and the insurance on file for your mover. A moving company is required to have both BIPD ($750,000 minimum), and Cargo insurance filed with the FMCSA. Under the heading ‘Insurance on File’ if BIPD says $0, or if Cargo says ‘NO’ then run, don’t walk away from this company.

The good news is that the hardest part is over with. Is your company still doing okay? If so, we’re on the right track. You should make a quick check with the Better Business Bureau. Now, let me make a point here. The BBB is a business with members that pay them dues. Now, if you were running a business and belonged to an organization that bad mouthed your business practices, do you think that you’d keep paying them dues? Do you think that the BBB wants to lose members by bad mouthing them? Nope, and nope are probably your answers, and you’re right. Use the BBB reports as a guide. Call up the BBB office and ask them about the number of complaints that your company has on file. Don’t take a ’satisfactory’ rating at face value.

One last check you should do is to call the FMCSA’s Safety Violation and Consumer Complaints hotline at 1-888-368-7238 and ask them about the complaint history of your moving company. They are open from 10am to 6pm EST Monday thru Friday and it’s worth the call.

Post a message on the MovingScam.com message boards and ask if anyone else has had any experience with the company. The message boards are very active, and chances are that someone will respond quickly to your questions. Also feel free to contact MovingScam.com with any questions you may have. We’re here to help.

Finally, if anyone other than the moving company that you hired shows up on moving day, fire them on the spot. This is worth repeating… never, ever sign blank paperwork, and know what you’re signing. Read the document, understand it and don’t worry about making the mover wait.
Source:http://www.movingscam.com/news/findmover.shtml

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world” - Margaret Mead, 1901 - 1978

The number one question MovingScam.com receives is “Can you recommend a good moving company?”. If the answer to that question was easy, then there wouldn’t be a reason for maintaining a web site called MovingScam.com (see this article for more information).
Currently the moving industry is overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), part of the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT). At last count the FMCSA had only nine investigators to handle all of the thousands of complaints against moving companies each year. What does that mean for consumers? It means this:

Most complaints are overlooked and the consumer becomes a statistic and no action is ever taken against the moving company.
When Congress dissolved the ICC in 1995, they also removed the authority from the FMCSA to step in on a consumer’s behalf during a move. In other words, they can’t help you even if they want to.
If an investigation does occur, it takes months if not years for the FMCSA to, yes, get this… Fine the moving company.
The scam companies won’t pay the fine (and they don’t seem to get in trouble for not paying), and even if they did, the consumers don’t see a dime of their money back. The money from the fines goes to pay for highway improvements!

   The History of MovingScam
     I founded MovingScam.com in 2001 after I was scammed by America’s Best Movers and decided to fight back (see “The True Story”). Others joined me, and together, we’ve been helping consumers move for over five years.

     At the core of the web site are message boards staffed around the clock by experienced volunteers who answer moving-related questions promptly and at no cost to the consumer. None of the volunteers receive any income from this activity.

     MovingScam.com is dedicated to providing solid, impartial consumer education and to working for better consumer protections in the moving industry.

Tim Walker
Founder of MovingScam.com   
  
There are in fact laws governing the moving industry, but the moving industry is unique in having special privileges and protections that no other industry could even imagine enjoying.
How did we get here? The interstate HHG moving industry was “price-deregulated” with the Household Goods Transportation Act of 1980. This Act allowed interstate movers to issue binding or fixed estimates for the first time. Until then, the moving industry was overseen by the ICC like a public utility (like phone and electricity services). There were only a handful of companies, known as the major van lines, that were allowed to transport household goods interstate, and they all charged according to their tariff — a schedule of rates and services — which had a built-in profit. ALL estimates were non-binding. Movers sold themselves on service, not price. The profit margin was very thin, but there was profit.

When the Household Good Transportation Act was passed in 1980, not only could companies now compete on price by giving binding estimates, but also there was a provision in the Act that new companies could enter the market. Regarding the “freedom” to give binding estimates, the majors didn’t want that. For a while some carriers just had a policy of sticking to non-binding estimates only. But because customers wanted the price certainty of binding estimates, those companies finally caved in and started issuing binding estimates too.

So how did the moving industry end up with a special governing body to oversee it in the first place? There is a federal statute enacted in 1906 called the Carmack Amendment. It was originally enacted in response to railroad barons who controlled the few railroads in existence and who were giving their friends favors in transportation rates and squeezing small farmers and everyone else. Back then, railroads were the major way of transporting goods across the still-developing country, and so the ICC was set up to, in effect, regulate the monopoly that was the railroads. The Carmack Amendment forbade “price discrimination”; that is, the railroad baron had to charge a set rate (contained in the railroad’s tariff), approved by the ICC, to all shippers. When roads and trucking later arose, the ICC started overseeing that, too. The major van lines and their agent system first got organized, and wrote their tariffs, in the 1930s.

OK, fast forward to 1980 and beyond. Because of the Household Goods Transportation Act of 1980, by the late 1990’s there were hundreds of interstate moving companies in existence, all with their own “interstate operating authority” granted to them by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). (Compare that with the handful of companies who had interstate operating authority pre-1980.) Now, anyone can be an interstate mover. It used to take 5 years to get interstate operating authority. Now it takes 3 weeks.

Throw into this mix the fact that moving companies were now, theoretically, competing on price. The competition was so fierce, and the moving companies so numerous, that low-balling soon became a popular practice. Of course, low-balling doesn’t pay if the mover doesn’t practice hostage-taking (price-gouging during the move) as well, because the mover has to make money somehow. The need to low-ball to get moves, a direct consequence of the Household Transportation Act of 1980, is responsible for many of the abuses in the moving industry today. The ability of moving companies to get away with it, however, is caused by the Carmack Amendment.

So what’s the problem caused by the Carmack Amendment? Carmack purports to govern every single aspect of the shipping transaction. In the late 1990s, several courts handed down decisions interpreting Carmack as being so thorough and far-reaching that it “preempts” all other remedies that would otherwise be available to a plaintiff-shipper under state law. That is, suing for fraud under state consumer fraud/deceptive practices statutes was preempted. That means that an interstate mover can tell you: “I guarantee you that your move will cost only $2000,” while intending to hold your goods hostage for $4000 at destination.

Believe it or not, should he do that, according to these courts, you can only sue the mover under Carmack (not for state fraud, etc.), and Carmack, in turn, will allow you to ONLY get your $2000 overcharge back. Believe it or not, a mover’s “punishment” for stealing from you is to give back what he stole, and that’s only if he gets caught and someone forces him to give it back. Overall, a pretty sweet situation for moving companies, wouldn’t you say?

So that is what “deregulation” in interstate moving is about. It’s about PRICE deregulation and “ENTRY INTO THE MARKET” deregulation, coupled with the unfortunate decisions of certain courts in the late 1990s that moving companies can only get a slap on the wrist for even the worst abuses. The ICC’s disbandment in 1995 was just the last nail on the coffin — by then, the ICC couldn’t really oversee the industry anyway, since so many movers had entered the market and “tariffs” were now anachronisms.

In today’s environment of price competition, the current scamming will continue (and get worse) unless there are mechanisms for the consumer to force the mover to stick to his price bid. Those mechanisms are police intervention and punitive damages.

My advice is to fight back. Get the word out. Talk to your local police, and file complaints with the FMCSA and DOT. Get in touch with your local, state, and federal reps, and tell them that you want them to support consumer protections. Call your local media - newspapers, television stations. Get a web site of your own and get the word out. Whatever you can do to let other consumers know what’s going on in the moving industry right now.
To find out Black list of moving companies go to http://www.movingscam.com/blackList.shtml

Source:http://www.movingscam.com/

Mini storage can be a lifesaver! Who do you know that has enough room for all of their belongings? And, if you are moving, these locations can provide you with just the right place to store then in the process. There are many reasons to need this type of storage, but how do you go about choosing one location or the next? Really, is there a difference? There are several things that you should look for in the mini storage units that you plan to purchase.

• First, start by knowing what is available in your area. In most cases, you will be able to find several storage units that you can rent. You’ll find them advertised on the web on various websites. Look for several so that you can compare what they have to offer.

• Next, you will want to understand just what is out there in several aspects. The first thing to consider is quality. You need an establishment that can provide you with high quality. The environment should be clean and organized. The facility should provide for temperature control as needed. And, you should find no problems accessing the location when you need to.

• Next, you need to look at security. What type of security does the location provide for your needs? Although you can lock the unit, can they still get in to it? And, do they provide you with a monitoring system to monitor who tries to enter you storage unit?

• Next, you need to check if the mini storage facility provides climate controlled units for your comfort and to protect your personal or business items in all weather conditions.

• Finally, you will want to look for a competitive price in the storage units as well. Depending on the area, the quality and the security provided, you should be able to find a very affordable price to choose.

It is important to realize that quality and security are more important aspects for the choice in one mini storage unit over the other. But, it is essential that you get the best price as well.

Read an article By Tom Vanderbilt: Self-Storage Nation - Americans are storing more stuff than ever.

The moving industry is getting big and the competition is sky-high. So much it reaches the SUN,.. I mean the NY SUN  

 
“Starting Monday, October 30th, we’ll be advertising on the home page (main banner) of the New York Sun ( http://www.nysun.com/ ). This campaign will be enhanced with a few print ads in the real estate section (Thursdays)”. Dana Rahav, Marketing Director FLATRATE Moving.

More moving companies does not necessarily means more quality. Stick to our guidelines in this BLOG to maximize you moving experience. This is your starting point choosing the right mover: category-the-perfect-movers.html

You want to drive here Moving Companies Responsibilities to cover your base.

What Kind of Dispute
Do You Have With Your Mover? 
Disputed Claim for Loss Damage
To the Articles Transported

In Your Shipment
  A dispute with your mover regarding the settlement of a claim for loss or damage to the articles contained in your shipment.

 This type of dispute may be eligible for arbitration.

Click here for more information and a Request for Arbitration Form.
 
Dispute Regarding Additional Charges

Billed to You by Your Mover

AFTER THE DELIVERY 

Of Your Shipment
  A dispute with your mover regarding additional charges that the moving company billed to you after your move.

 This type of dispute may be eligible for arbitration.

Click here for more information and a Request for Arbitration Form.
 
A Complaint Regarding the

Quality of Service That You Received

Or

Other Complaints That Are Not Subject

To Arbitration
   A complaint with your mover regarding the quality of service that you received.

 Complaints are not eligible for mandatory arbitration under the Federal guidelines of the AMSA arbitration program. 

Click here for more information and a Complaint Form.
 
ARBITRATION – DISPUTED LOSS AND DAMAGE CLAIMS. 

The Arbitration Program ensures that our members comply with the federal requirement that they must have a formal arbitration program available to resolve their customers’ disputes regarding loss and damage claims.

If you have a dispute with your mover regarding loss or damage that occurred to the articles in your shipment, you should first file a claim with your mover.  Then, if your mover denies your claim or provides a settlement offer that you are not satisfied with, you may elect to use arbitration to have your claim resolved.

For more information about the Arbitration Program,

including a schedule of the current administrative fees, click here .

 Click here for a form to use to request arbitration.

The arbitration program operates under federal guidelines and is limited in the type of cases that may be arbitrated.  Under the program, disputed loss and damage claims up to $10,000 are subject to mandatory arbitration if no settlement can be reached; claims over $10,000 may be arbitrated if your mover agrees to do so.

The National Arbitration Forum administers our arbitration program. NAF is an independent, non-governmental organization that is not affiliated with AMSA or with any household goods moving company.  NAF maintains a panel of independent and neutral arbitrators that include law professors, attorneys and former state and federal court judges to resolve the disputes.  NAF will charge an administrative fee to arbitrate your case.  The administrative fee, which is divided equally between the parties (unless your mover agrees to pay all or a portion of your share of the fee), is paid to NAF; AMSA does not receive any portion of the administrative fee.  The parties to your proceeding will be you and your mover with NAF acting as the neutral program administrator.  Neither AMSA nor any of its employees takes any role in the arbitration proceeding or has any influence in the outcome of the arbitrator’s decision. (AMSA serves only as a clearinghouse to make sure that your mover properly addresses your initial request for arbitration as required by the Federal statute.)

 Click here for a copy of the NAF Arbitration Rules and Procedures.

The decision of the Arbitrator that you receive from the National Arbitration Forum will be kept confidential.  Federal law (Section 14908, Subtitle IV, Title 49 United States Code) specifically prohibits an interstate carrier or its agent from disclosing any information about your shipment without your permission, except in response to legal process issued under authority of a court of the United States or a State or to an officer, employee, or agent of the United States government.  Therefore, AMSA respects your right to privacy in such matters and will keep the results of your arbitration case confidential.

ARBITRATION – DISPUTED CHARGES. 

The Arbitration Program ensures that our members comply with the federal requirement that they must have a formal arbitration program available to resolve their customers’ disputes regarding certain types of disputed charges.

While most disputed claims for loss and damage are eligible for consideration under the mandatory arbitration provisions, only certain types of disputed charges are eligible.  Disputes regarding charges that your mover collected when your shipment was delivered are not subject to mandatory arbitration.  However, disputes regarding additional charges that your mover billed to you after your shipment was delivered are eligible for consideration under the mandatory arbitration provisions.

If you have a dispute with your mover regarding the additional charges that your mover billed to you after your move, you should first file a claim with your mover.  Then, if your mover denies your claim or provides a settlement offer (refund) that you are not satisfied with, you may elect to use arbitration to have your claim resolved.

 For more information about the Arbitration Program,

including a schedule of the current administrative fees, click here .

 Click here  for a form to use to request arbitration.

Under the regulations, your mover is authorized to collect the following charges when your shipment is delivered:
         ·   100% of the binding estimate amount or 110% of the non-binding estimate amount, plus

·         Charges applicable for any services (i.e. waiting time, extra pickup or delivery, storage-in-transit) that you requested after the contract was executed that were not included in the estimate, and

·         In the event that shuttle service is required, the mover may also collect for the shuttle charges at delivery – provided that the shuttle charges collected at delivery do not exceed fifteen (15%) percent of the total charges due at delivery.

Any remaining charges must be billed to you – it is these additional charges that your mover bills to you (and are not collected at delivery) that are subject to arbitration.

For example, if you received a non-binding estimate from your mover for $7,000, you would be required to pay no more than 110% of this amount (or $7,700) at delivery for the services and quantities listed on your estimate.  However, if your shipment weighs more than the estimated amount, your mover will invoice you for the additional amount after your shipment has been delivered.  The amount of the additional billing is the amount subject to arbitration.

The National Arbitration Forum administers our arbitration program. NAF is an independent, non-governmental organization thatis not affiliated with AMSA or with any household goods moving company.  NAF maintains a panel of independent and neutral arbitrators that include law professors, attorneys and former state and federal court judges to resolve the disputes.  NAF will charge an administrative fee to arbitrate your case.  The administrative fee, which is divided equally between the parties (unless your mover agrees to pay all or a portion of your share of the fee), is paid to NAF; AMSA does not receive any portion of the administrative fee.  The parties to your proceeding will be you and your mover with NAF acting as the neutral program administrator.  Neither AMSA nor any of its employees takes any role in the arbitration proceeding or has any influence in the outcome of the arbitrator’s decision. (AMSA serves only as a clearinghouse to make sure that your mover properly addresses your initial request for arbitration as required by the Federal statute.)

 Click here for a copy of the NAF Arbitration Rules and Procedures.

The decision of the Arbitrator that you receive from the National Arbitration Forum will be kept confidential.  Federal law (Section14908, Subtitle IV, Title 49 United States Code) specifically prohibits an interstate carrier or its agent from disclosing any information about your shipment without your permission, except in response to legal process issued under authority of a court of the United States or a State or to an officer, employee, or agent of the United States government.  Therefore, AMSA respects your right to privacy in such matters and will keep the results of your arbitration case confidential.

SUBMITTING A COMPLAINT.

If you have a complaint with your mover regarding shipment delay or the quality of service that you received during your move or another type of complaint that does not fall within the guidelines for arbitration, you should first file a claim with your mover.  Then, if your mover denies your claim or provides a settlement offer that you are not satisfied with, you may elect to file your complaint with AMSA.

Click here  for a form to use to file a complaint.

If you have a complaint about your mover that you have been unable to resolve, you may submit your complaint using the form above to provide us with the information that we will need to assist you in processing your complaint.  After we receive your complaint, we will contact your mover to obtain a written explanation of the circumstances that brought about your complaint in order to attempt to bring the matter to a conclusion. 

AMSA is a non-profit organization that acts as a clearinghouse for matters relating to consumer complaints, information and arbitration.  AMSA is not a governmental agency and we do not have the authority to order your mover to provide refunds or reimbursements, force a settlement or to demand any type of compensatory payment from your mover; however, we do routinely remove movers from our membership that show a repeated pattern of consumer abuse.

There is no cost to you for processing a complaint through this AMSA program.

Accessorial (Additional) Services - services such as packing, unpacking, or shuttle service that you request to be performed (or are necessary because of landlord requirements or other special circumstances). Charges for these services are in addition to the transportation charges.
Advanced Charges - charges for services not performed by the mover but instead by a professional, craftsman or other third party at your request. The charges for these services are paid for by the mover and added to your bill of lading charges.
Bill of Lading - the receipt for your goods and the contract for their transportation. It is your responsibility to understand the bill of lading before you sign it. If you do not agree with something on the bill of lading, do not sign it until you are satisfied that it is correct. The bill of lading is an important document. Don’t lose or misplace your copy.
Binding/Non-Binding Estimate - a binding estimate is an agreement made in advance with the mover that guarantees the total cost of the move based on the quantities and services shown on the estimate. A non-binding estimate is the carrier’s approximation of the cost based on the estimated weight of the shipment and the accessorial services requested. A non-binding estimate is not binding on the carrier and the final charges will be based on the actual weight and tariff provisions in effect.
Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery Service - an additional level of service whereby dates of service are guaranteed, with the mover providing reimbursement for delays. This premium service is often subject to minimum weight requirements.
High Value Article - items included in a shipment that are valued at more than $100 per pound. These items should be disclosed to the mover to ensure that they are protected accordingly.
Inventory - the detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item.
Transportation Charges - charges for the vehicle transportation portion of your move. These charges apply in addition to the additional service charges.
Order for Service - the document authorizing the mover to transport your household goods.
Pickup and Delivery Charges - separate transportation charges applicable for transporting your shipment between the warehouse and your residence.
Shuttle Service - use of a smaller vehicle to provide service to residences that are not accessible to the mover’s normal linehaul equipment (large moving vans).
Storage-In-Transit (SIT) - temporary warehouse storage of your shipment pending further transportation; for example, if your new home isn’t quite ready to occupy. Added charges for SIT service and final delivery charges from the warehouse will apply.
Valuation - the degree of “worth” of the shipment. The valuation charge that you are assessed compensates the mover for assuming a greater degree of liability than that provided for in the base transportation charges.
Source:http://www.moving.org/resources/terms.html

How to Take the Stress Out of Moving
by Joe Harrison, President, American Moving and Storage Association

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Moving is one of the most stressful events in a person’s life, ranked by researchers as high as the death of a loves one or divorce. But with the right kind of planning and care, you can take the stress out of your move.

While the advice in this article primarily covers interstate moves (a move between two or more states), many of the tips apply equally to local and intrastate (within the same state) moves and international moving as well.

The biggest mistake most people make is failing to plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute — especially during movers’ busy summer season — limits your options and can result in disappointment when it comes to securing the services of the mover you want at the date of your choosing. It also causes people to be less careful in selecting a mover - leaving them open to become victims of criminals who pose as movers to rip people off.

We suggest you begin making arrangements at least four to six weeks before the moving date. A planning checklist and planner, called Countdown to Moving Day, and other useful advice, is available at the American Moving and Storage Association consumer advice website, www.moving.org.

And here is an inside tip from someone who knows the moving industry. Most people want to move during the summer, when the kids are out of school. This means that from May to September movers are extremely busy. If you can arrange for your move at another time of year, you have a much better chance of securing a high quality move from the company of your choice. Also, most movers offer lower prices between the months of October and April.

Similarly, most people want to move at the beginning or end of the month, because most rent and mortgage payments are due on the first of each month. However, if you can arrange to move in the middle of the month, you will not only increase the likelihood of getting the mover you want and a top-notch crew, but the pickup and delivery dates you require.

How to Find a Professional Mover

AMSA does not recommend one moving company over another. However, when selecting a mover - especially an interstate mover — we encourage consumers to choose a moving company that is a member of AMSA. Members of AMSA are required to follow all federal consumer protection regulations and participate in the loss and damage Arbitration Program sponsored by our organization.

We also urge you choose from among AMSA members that participate in the AMSA Certified Mover and Van Line Program. AMSA Certified Movers and Van Lines have voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Conduct that requires complete disclosure of moving information to consumers, timely service and prompt response to claims and complaints.

Not all movers participate in this program. Certified movers are listed at www.moving.org.

To make your search easier, AMSA has a Referral Service available on the www.moving.org website. Simply type in move profile information to obtain a listing of professional movers in your area. If you wish, your move profile can be emailed to these movers to contact you for a free estimate.

If your shipment is to be moved within one state (intrastate) or you are moving out of the country (international move, many AMSA members perform this service as well. Also, you can contact your state’s moving association for a reference to their member movers.

How to Avoid Pitfalls - And Criminals Posing as Movers

You’ve probably seen news stories about the proliferation of scam movers who have abused customers across the U.S. These are criminals who pretend to be movers. Typically, they offer an estimate much lower than legitimate movers. Then, when they arrive at destination, they significantly boost the price and refuse to unload the truck unless you pay the new, much higher price, usually demanded in cash.

This is against the law. Most local law enforcement agencies will not intervene in these cases because they believe they involve private, contractual disputes. Federal officials responsible for enforcing the law will take your complaint, and eventually investigate and will try to help you get your possessions back, but it is a difficult process.

As a result, the best way to protect yourself from these rogue movers is don’t get involved with them in the first place. Here are dead giveaways to look for - along with good advice on how to make sure that a move handled by a legitimate mover goes smoothly and with the minimum of stress.

The website looks very professional, but you’ve never heard of the recommended movers.
Today, the Internet is the favorite tool of rogue movers for luring victims. Typically designed to look like professional and legitimate, these websites are operated by rogue movers or brokers who assign your shipment to a mover, which can be a rogue mover.

If you use one of these sites, be sure to ask if your shipment will be brokered and insist on learning the identity of the licensed mover. Although some sites are legitimate, few bother to weed out rogue movers from who they work with. To be safe, avoid Web-based brokers and deal directly with known, well-established movers that either are located in your area or movers (agents) in your area that represent established van lines.

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
We’re trained as consumers to look for the lowest price. While honest movers are competitive and their prices differ, they will be within a reasonable range. If a mover comes in with an estimate way below all the others, that should send up a red flag that this is someone to avoid.
To put the typical cost of moving in perspective, the examples below show ranges of average costs of interstate moves between four major cities by approximate size of a household.

Source:http://www.moving.org/before/smartmoving.html

The following tips often help children get used to the move before, during and after a family relocates.

Tips

Include the children in making plans for the move. For example, take them house-hunting with you.

Help your child/ren learn about the new area.

Through play-acting with dolls, boxes and a wagon, children can get a feeling of “moving”.

Let the children help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.

Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.

Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, some clothing, a few favorite toys and maybe a new toy,for the move.

Take a “family break” as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don’t try to do everything when you arrive, take everything slowly and let things get on track.

Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.

Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child/ren to school the first few days may ease tension.

Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, menstrual disorder) should be reported to a doctor.

If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution children about new situations they will face.
Source:http://www.moving.org/brochure/children.html

The cost of an interstate move is usually based on the weight of your belongings and the distance they are shipped, plus the amount of packing and other services that you require.

To help you anticipate the cost of your move, movers will give you an estimate of the price. Be sure to get written estimates from at least 3 different companies so that you can compare their services and prices.

The charge that you will be billed for your move is based on the weight of your shipment, the distance that you move, and the other services that you require. Your bill will be higher or lower depending on how much your shipment weighs and how far you move.

Help the movers calculate the cost of your move by showing them every single item to be moved. Don’t forget to go into the attic, basement, garage, shed, and closets and under beds. Reach a clear understanding about the amount of packing and other services needed. Anything omitted from the estimate but later included in the shipment will add to the cost.

Most movers offer two types of estimates – non-binding and binding.

Non-binding estimates are not bids or contracts. Instead, a non-binding estimate is an approximation of the cost based on the mover’s survey of the items to be moved, with the final cost determined after the shipment is weighed. Since a non-binding estimate is based on the actual weight of your shipment (rather than the estimated weight), the price will usually be lower than a binding estimate. However, when you receive a non-binding estimate there is no guarantee that the final cost will not be more than the estimate.

Under a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot require you to pay more than the amount of the estimate, plus 10 percent, (or 110% of the estimate amount) at the time of delivery. You are then obligated to pay any remaining charges for any additional services that you requested or that were required to accomplish your move that are over this 110% amount 30 days after your shipment is delivered, if the services or quantities were not included in your estimate.

Many movers also provide binding estimates. A binding estimate means that you are obligated to pay the price set forth in the binding estimate even if the shipment weighs more than or less than the estimated amount.

All binding estimates cover only the goods and services listed on the estimate. If you add items or request additional services, the mover may revise the original estimate before your shipment is loaded or, if you request additional services after your shipment is in transit, your mover will bill you for these added services 30 days after your shipment is delivered, if they were not included in your estimate. In addition, all movers reserve the right to charge for services necessary to accomplish delivery, even if those services are not requested by the shipper. For example, additional charges will apply if you are not prepared to accept delivery and the shipment is placed in storage, or if a smaller (shuttle) truck must be used to accomplish delivery because your new home is located on a narrow street. Again, your mover will bill you for these services 30 days after your shipment is delivered, if they were not included in your estimate.

Another type of estimate used by many movers is the Not-To-Exceed Estimate. This type of estimate is called various things by various movers, such as Guaranteed Price or Price Protection, but the end result is the same — an estimate based on a binding estimate or on actual cost, whichever is lower. Like a binding estimate, a not-to-exceed estimate must be provided to you in writing and is binding on the carrier.

Not-to-Exceed estimates differ though in that the binding estimate amount becomes the maximum amount that you will be obligated to pay for the services listed on the estimate. This maximum amount alternates with the tariff charges applicable based on the actual weight of the shipment, with the customer paying the lesser of the two amounts. When you accept a not-to-exceed estimate, the move is performed at actual weight based on the tariff rate levels, with the binding estimate representing the maximum charge that you will have to pay.

To get an idea of how much your move will cost - log on to our www.moving.org web site and select the Mover Referral Service to get estimates from AMSA professional movers.

Our Mover Referral Service will help you find local professional movers who will provide you with free inhome estimates. That’s the best way to get estimates of what the price will be for your individual move.

Get more than one estimate and watch out for low-ball movers! If a mover you are considering tells you that he can move you for an unrealistically low price – be careful. It could mean he will suddenly remember some extra charges once your shipment has been loaded on the truck, the doors have been padlocked and he is ready to drive off into the sunset with all of your worldly possessions.

Or, if a mover you are considering refuses to provide you with an in-home estimate and tells you he can provide an accurate estimate over the phone without ever seeing your home and your furniture – choose another mover.

And remember, it’s not just the price; it’s the total value of a professional move.

When you are discussing your estimate with your mover, be sure to ask about the arrangements for paying for the move. It is customary for movers to require that charges be paid in cash, by certified check, or by money order. Most movers will not accept personal checks. Some movers will accept payment by credit card. However, do not assume that because you have a nationally recognized charge or credit card that it will be accepted for payment. Ask your mover before your move.

Source:http://www.moving.org/before/estimate.html