1. What every consumer needs to know [insert your company’s name here]

2. An estimated 37+ million Americans move every year The average American makes 11.7 moves in a lifetime Most moves are tied to a new job, a new residence or a change in lifestyle (marriage, divorce, retirement)

3. Do-it-yourself costs add up quickly: truck rental, equipment rental (pads/dolly), boxes/tape/packing materials, fuel, your time and trouble, snacks for helpers, child care? You avoid unexpected problems: damage from lack of packing skills, personal injury, accidents with truck

4. Get at least three written estimates from movers which: Are licensed by the federal government (interstate) Are licensed by the state of California (intrastate) Have a bricks-and-mortar location Are open to you visiting them Are members of the CMSA Have good consumer ratings (Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, etc.)

5. What to avoid: Internet-only presence Unusually low-ball estimates Brokers (middlemen) “Firm” estimate offered on-line or by phone Minimum insurance offered as the only option Reluctance to provide answers/details

6. Offer a written, in-home estimate Don’t request a large up-front deposit Provide full explanations of liability Offer optional full-value coverage Answer all your questions fully Can provide references Have a good reputation in your community

7. Local (intrastate) movers Regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission Consumer information available at www.cpuc.ca.gov Long-distance (interstate) movers Regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Must publish rates (“tariff”), and offer more comprehensive an agency of the US Transportation Dept. insurance and arbitration service

8. Weight estimate jumps unexpectedly at time of move, even though you showed the mover such areas as attic, storage shed, etc. Delays in delivery Extensive loss or damage Household goods “held hostage” for more money

9. Must be members of the CMSA Must adhere to CMSA’s Code of Ethics Must be licensed by the state of California P romises to provide Calif. consumers honest, legal, and efficient service

10. Interstate movers must provide you with copies of two FMCSA publications: “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and “Ready To Move.” Calif. Movers hired at least 3 days in advance must provide you with an "Important Notice About Your Move" document, and an "Important Information For Persons Moving Household Goods within California" booklet. Interstate movers must participate in an arbitration program to settle disputes (if not resolved by the carrier first).

11. For interstate moves, consumers can file a complaint on- line at www.protectyourmove.gov or by calling (888) DOT- SAFT (368-7238). For intrastate moves, consumers should contact the CMSA at (800) 672-1415; or the Calif. Public Utilities Commission at (800) 366-4782 or www.cpuc.ca.gov.

12. Thank you! For more information, please contact: [insert your name, company and contact information here]