How To Start A Moving Company

1. Starting a Moving Company 
2. Step 1
3. Step 2
4. Step 3 
5. You May Ask 'What's a Moving Tariff?'
6. Step 4 
7. Step 5
8. Operate Legally

1. Starting A Moving Company

So you want to know how to start a moving company? This may seem like one of the most straight forward businesses to start, move peoples items from A to B. Essentially it is if you are not planning on being around for very long which is never a good mentality when starting a business. The moving industry is a saturated market but may companies don’t last the test of time because they forget to take key measure that we are going to make easy for you by reading our step to step guide below. Have your company stand out by making a name that is synonymous with quality and efficient moves. Make sure to follow this helpful checklist before you start your moving business to get all your boxes ticked before you get other peoples boxes packed, so to speak.

2. Step 1

The first step to starting your moving business is making sure you have all your licensing. There are different licenses needed if you are doing local or interstate moving, and each state has different requirements so check your state/city for what you need on the DOT (Department of Transportation) website.  You make think that moving someone’s stuff from one place to another could go unnoticed for a while without a license, but it really isn’t worth the risk because it is actually a federal offense to do so without proper licensing. Don’t risk it, so get your proper paperwork done so your business can thrive.

3. Step 2

It is required by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) that you have an Arbitration service already set up before you start a business to protect both your company and your future customer base if they have any problems with your services. Next is buying and becoming part of Arbitration Program is the settling of any disputes outside of the courts, and an arbitrator is a neutral third party that can help settle the disputes. MovingAuthority is a listing of licensed moving companies across the USA that also provides a legal arbitration service to businesses for a reasonable fee. This is a great tool to use as you grow your business.

4. Step 3

Make sure to also obtain Cargo and basic liability insurance for your business. In addition, make sure to get workman’s comp insurance because when it comes to moving and hauling large items it is a possibility that your workers can get injured and its best to protect yourself and be prepared. Now the next action is to obtain a custom moving tariff.

5. You may ask whats a "Moving Tariff"

Well, it's a menu that sets out all agreed pricing and all line haul rates and also sets valuation option movers customers. The best suggestion is to get a custom built. A tariff from a household goods tariff builder and it must be published and you must have a copy of published moving tariff in your office available for a USDOT officer. Please take note that this is a law that FMCSA officers are able to inspect tariff any time they request.  

Do not get a tariff from an unauthorized Moving Tariff company. If you have an issue with USDOT carrier is responsible to don't cut cost on your tariff and do not confuse a moving software as a tariff.   

6. Step 4

Get a Website made! Most, if not all, of your sales, will come from online searches made for movers, so get online. Make sure you have a catchy and unique logo and make your website user-friendly and mobile friendly, both will help drive up your sales. Another helpful hint is to add your business to Google Places so your business is better linked and will show up in local customers searches. 

Having your business listed on Moving Authority and linking back to your profile page with a posting of different awards and accreditations that can show how good your company is and it will show that your moving company does quality work as a mover and that you are part of a group in the industry. Other top sites in the moving industry is another key component to growing a successful moving company.

7. Step 5

Invest in real equipment. Besides your truck or trucks, you really need

• Boxes Dolly or called hand truck
• Appliance Dolly for fridges or appliances
• Furniture Quilts/Blankets to wrap the furniture
• 4 Wheeler Dolly for bulky items

It is best for the long haul of your business to invest in professional grade equipment rather than items from stores like Home Depot. Although those tools work well; they usually cannot withstand the wear and tear over the years as proper equipment does and tends to break quickly.

8. Operate Legally

Websites like Moving Authority have changed the online game for finding licensed, accredited moving companies that meet consumer’s needs and budget. Making sure your business is listed on such sites is the final step and key to success!

If you want to learn more about starting your own moving company, we highly recommend that you view the video below. It gives you a quick rundown on what you need before you can legally operate as a mover in the United Stated of America going across state lines.

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