Information about, and tips from, the moving industry.

America’s moving industry is as diverse as the country itself. You will find professional multi-million dollar companies as well as the ubiquitous mom-and-pop corporations. People working in the industry range from CEOs in blue chip corporations to the truck driver you will be directly communicating with on move-day. The 16.5 billion dollar industry comes with its own sets of rules, regulations and information you can educate yourself about to make better decisions when you’re planning your move. Here are 3 things to get you started with learning about the industry and its policies:

1. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION

Approximately 32% of all movers cite work and jobs as their reasons for moving. Some want to move closer to their workplace (13.4%), some get a job at another place or are transferred (12.8%) and others cite miscellaneous employment related causes (6.2%). In several cases from amongst these, the movers are eligible for having their moving expenses covered by their federal income taxes. You can avail the facility if:

• Your move is tied with the start of your job
• The new location of your office is 50 miles farther than the old location was from your place
• If you move within a year of officially being assigned your new job

So it is very important for you to find out if the reason for your move qualifies you for such coverage. Since all your moving expenses will be paid for by the government, the financial stress of it moving is virtually eradicated.

To know more, visit check out this publication on moving expenses from the Department of Treasury.

Also, take a look at the economic stimulus plan introduced during the presidency of President Obama for people buying houses for the very first time. The plan concerns an $8000 tax credit so you definitely want to read up on it: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/ (link is no longer active)

2. THINGS YOU SHOULD AVOID SHIPPING

Most explosive and flammable/combustible items should not be a part of your shipment when moving. If you can dispose them properly before your move, your shipment will be made much more efficiently. Following are some items that should not be shipped:

• Bleach
• Construction Paints
• Gas/Oils, Aerosols and Fire Extinguishers

The list is not exhaustive by any means and you should do some research in the area to find out if some of your belongings are better off being sold or disposed than shipped. You can also consult your moving company such as Good Stuff Moving for advice on the matter.

3. USEFUL RESOURCES

Some important things have been mentioned in this article but the best way to initiate a successful move is by educating yourself as much as you can on rules and regulations of the moving industry. Here are some useful links that should provide you with information as well as guide you through the moving process:

• American Moving and Storing Association (AMSA) is the official resource for the moving industry. You can check out stats, rules and regulations among a plethora of other information on their website. Keep in Mind that Good Stuff Moving is a member of AMSA.
• The consumers’ site moving.org lists a lot of useful practical information and can even provide you with an expenses estimate.
• Good Stuff Moving is a professional company you can use for an efficient and affordable move. If you have any questions, give us a call.

Planning is essential for a successful move. Educating yourself on the practices and guidelines of the moving industry can make your move a lot smoother.