The President's Column
By Steve Weitekamp
May 2022
May is Moving Month. What does that mean in a world where every segment of our society, from the insignificant to the important, has a day, week, or a month? As I write this column, I see that today is National Star Wars Day. May the 4th be with you. The design of having May be Moving Month is clear, this month is the beginning of the traditional moving season, remember the traditional seasonality of the household goods moving industry? One of the key elements of celebrating this month is consumer education, there are a lot of risks for consumers trying to navigate the potential minefield of selecting a mover, particularly when using the internet as their sole source. If we can get consumers thinking about their move more than a week in advance, we have a better chance of providing the information they need to make educated choices.
As I mentioned in my February column, I serve as a member of the ATA MSC Board serving as Leader of the Government Affairs Committee – Enforcement and Consumer Protection Task Force. Earlier this year, we conducted a workshop for enforcement personnel from all levels (Federal, State, and Local) with the goal of reinforcing the issues that consumers face when they make a poor decision by selecting a rogue operator for their move. On the California intrastate moving front, our strong advocacy for permitted movers and the moving public is paying dividends with the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) and their actions against rogue operators. Even the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) seems to be finally taking the matter seriously and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) say that it is now (finally) a strategic priority.
We are working with BHGS leadership to put together a joint piece on the benefits of selecting a permitted mover, something we were never able to accomplish with our previous regulators. Hopefully, you’ll be able to see and share on the CMSA Facebook page.
This issue includes a terrific recap of our 104th annual convention. There are so many people to thank for making the event one of the best in the industry. Thanks to all that participated in the program, Van Lines, Move Managers, National and International Association leaders, Industry and Subject Experts, Exhibitors, Event Partners and M/C’s, Board and Committee members, CMSA Staff; and it wouldn’t have been possible without the membership support and participation. The spirit of goodwill was evident at every event, where members were happy to share a smile and a laugh with friends, many of whom, had remained apart over the last two years. It is truly great to be back!
May 2022
- CMSA Communicator
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