Florida Consumer E-Newsletter |
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Download PDF version [752K PDF]
A Message From the Commissioner...
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Dear Friends: Moving your household goods can be a difficult and an expensive task. Research, planning in advance, being well informed and choosing a professional mover can help to alleviate some of the stress associated with moving. In Florida, more than 60 percent of household moves occur between July 1 and September 30. Because this places high demands on |
moving companies' staff and equipment, they charge premium rates for moves in these months. It may be possible to bargain for a lower rate by planning your move during the months when demand is lower, such as October through May. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responsible for regulating intrastate movers of household goods within the State of Florida. The Moving Services Act was created to protect Florida residents from deceptive business practices common to some moving companies. This act is also designed to protect the moving companies who have a history of providing quality services to the residents of Florida. Remember, we're here for you. Our Consumer Hotline: calling within Florida 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), outside of Florida 850-488-2221, Espanol 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832), will answer any questions you may have about a moving company in Florida and provide you with their complaint history. You can also visit us online. |
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Before You Move
When you are planning to move within the State of Florida make sure the company you choose to do business with is in compliance with the law.
The company you choose must:
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Provide a written estimate and contract (must be signed by shipper and mover) prior to providing any moving services.
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Carry current and valid cargo legal liability valuation insurance coverage.
Disclose limitation of liability in writing at the time the estimate or contract for services rendered. -
Inform you of the opportunity to purchase or decline additional valuation coverage to recoup the cost of any damage to your goods.
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Accept a minimum of two of the following three forms of payment:
o Cash, cashier's check, money order, traveler's check
o Valid personal check, showing upon its face the name and address of the shipper or authorized representative; or
o Valid credit card, which shall, but not limited to Visa, or MasterCard.
Choosing a Mover
Have at least three movers come to your home and give you an estimate, two to six weeks ahead of your anticipated move date. A mover's estimator should actually see what needs to be serviced and moved to provide you with a reasonable and accurate estimate. While the internet is a valuable way to compare cost and gain knowledge about a company, it shouldn't be used as a replacement for an on-site written estimate. If a moving company refuses to give you a written estimate, you shouldn't consider them any further as a potential mover.
When choosing a mover find out the following information:
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Is the company registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services?
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How long has the company been in business?
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Does the company offer extra services, such as storage, packing and unpacking?
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What type of protection does the company offer against loss or damaged goods (full replacement cost, depreciated value or the basic 60 cents per pound valuation carriers are required to provide)?
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Does the mover have a good reputation for settling claims?
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Does the company offer arbitration for claim disputes?
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Does the company have a good record of meeting its delivery schedules?
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Can the company provide proof of worker's compensation coverage, general and legal liability coverage?
One of the most effective ways to find a mover is to ask your friends, co-workers, family members or business associates for a referral.
Remember, before you enter into a contract with a mover for an intrastate move, call the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), or 850-488-2221 to check if the mover is registered or if any complaints have been filed against them.
Additional Resources
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Moving Within Florida: Before you decide to move check out this handy pamphlet that gives you tips on making your moving experience successful. (¡Español!)
Would you like to know the statute for Intrastate Moving? View the full Florida Statute.
The links below are for your information only. The goal of the Division of Consumer Services is to provide additional information to consumers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not review or confirm these sites for accuracy.
Florida Movers and Warehousemen's Association (FMWA)
FMWA was founded in 1979. Over the years, FMWA has grown to become the voice for the industry before state lawmakers. Most recently, the association worked with legislators to pass groundbreaking legislation to rid our industry of extortionists and thieves who give our profession a bad name.
American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)
The American Moving and Storage Association's mission is To represent and enhance the Domestic and International Moving and Storage Industry. AMSA is a non-profit trade association established in 1936. It has an education foundation, The Moving & Storage Institute. This site will provide you with helpful information for household interstate moves.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The mission of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is to increase public awareness about the household goods moving industry and decrease moving fraud by providing consumers with the knowledge and resources to plan a successful move.
