When it comes to moving there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind. Who’s going to watch the kids? How much will a moving company cost? How long will it take to pack?
Unfortunately, one of the most important things to keep in mind when moving typically isn’t at the forefront of peoples’ minds. Why? It’s dull and unexciting, but it’s necessary – you need to know if the moving company you hire is properly licensed and has professional credentials. Dealing with licensed and regulated companies helps ensure you are dealing with a reputable company and that you will not fall prey to a moving scam. We know you probably don’t know the ins and outs of moving company licenses and credentials, we wouldn’t either if we weren’t movers so today we’re here to walk you through the different types.
Licensing
Moving in the Washington DC area is unique. We have three jurisdictions; Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC. Technically, crossing these jurisdictions would constitute an interstate move and require the licensing for interstate moving . This would also require that you be charged by weight according to a published tariff. If your move, however, is within the
Washington DC Commercial Zone a company may charge you by the hour for your move. Crossing state boundaries within the Department of Transportation regulated commercial zone is considered a local move as is any move that stays within Maryland or DC or moves under 30 miles in Virginia.
Department of Transportation (DOT): In order to be a licensed and approved moving company, a company needs to be registered with DOT. Click here to confirm if a mover is registered with DOT.
An Operating Authority (MC number): This number must be obtained for any company that’s being hired to move belongings and arrange interstate transport. An MC number is not required of local moving companies that stay within the DC Commercial zone.
VA Intra Registration: In order to move people within the state of Virginia, a moving company needs to have VA Intra Registration licensing.
The next time you’re shopping around for a mover make sure they’re licensed with the three organizations linked above. This will ensure you’re moving with an accredited company that has your best interests in mind.
Credentials
Who doesn’t have a moving nightmare story? Have you heard stories of companies holding furniture as hostage on the truck until more money is paid, movers stealing items, moving brokers promising services and prices that the actual mover refuses to abide by or companies that can’t be contacted or seem to disappear after a move. Avoid becoming one of the moving scam statistics by ensuring that your mover is choosing to associate with and be regulated by associations.
American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA): AMSA is a non-profit trade association. As a member, Beltway upholds their Code of Ethics and belief in providing honest, ethical, efficient and quality services. We’re listed under our long distance carrier trade name Choice Relocation.
ProMover Program Certified: This program helps consumers identify quality professional movers who have passed background checks and agree to uphold ASMA’s Code of Ethics.
Beltway Movers is also associated with the Maryland Motor Truck Association and the Virginia Movers & Warehousemen’s Association.
Click here for Beltway Movers’ credential and license information. Interested in a moving company in Montgomery County, MD? If so, call Beltways Movers today at (800) 966-8348. We look forward to moving with you!
