As mentioned in Chairman Freese’s column, we recently had our Fall Board meeting where we worked together on the business of the Association. It is worthwhile for all to periodically review their business plan and ensure that they are on the envisioned path. One of the tools we use to develop a path is a mission statement. This touchstone is valuable in even the day-to-day decision making process. Most would say that a good mission statement should be clear, concise, and useful.

The California Moving and Storage Association (CMSA) mission statement:

The California Moving and Storage Association (CMSA) is a non-profit trade association representing the state of California regulated moving industry and associated businesses. CMSA provides member companies with tools they need to operate legally and responsibly in the industry, including educational industry forums, newsletters, regular meetings and other programs. The Association assists consumers in making educated choices in the selection of a moving company. By choosing a CMSA member moving company, consumers will benefit by selecting a legal and qualified mover that will be able to provide excellent service for their moving needs.

Not mentioned in the US Transportation Command recap (cover article) was an important point that I shared with General Lyons and his command staff. In his opening comments, he twice mentioned a military member program, the Personal Procurement Move (PPM) where the government gives military members money to handle their own move. I stated that military members that use this method to do anything other than load their own pick-up or rental truck are at a significant risk of being scammed. I have received calls from military families that have decided to do it themselves, only to come to the realization that any issues described on social media sites that deride the program are relatively insignificant when compared to what they can face when they select their mover based solely on a website and possibly what seems like a friendly voice on the phone.

As 2018 is quickly coming to an end and the holidays are upon us, I hope all of you take the time to enjoy Thanksgiving with friends and family and have a safe and merry holiday season. Although many of us may not have been affected by the wildfires, a lot of us know people who have been. Our members have always been a compassionate group and I know we have people out there helping out their communities. I encourage you to share your stories with us so others can be inspired.

November 2018 - CMSA Communicator