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The following blog was written by Bailey's Moving & Storage's Director of Safety, Garth Wilson. Garth has over 30 years of experience, and has multiple certifications including Certified Safety Professional, Certified Director of Safety, and Smith System Driver Trainer.
At Bailey's Moving and Storage, we understand that safety is your top priority and it’s our top priority, too. That's why we don't just meet basic safety standards; we exceed them. In this blog, we’ll show you how to find the safest moving company and the steps Bailey’s takes to ensure a stress-free and secure move.
Who Regulates the Moving Industry?
The moving industry is a highly-regulated industry, and moving companies need to abide by regulations set by many different government agencies. These include the Department of Transportation (DOT), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Public Utilities Commission, Department of Commerce (DOC) and many other state and local governments. These regulations aim to protect consumers, the moving company’s employees, other businesses, and the public.
When it comes to moving regulations, there's a clear difference between staying within your state and venturing across state lines. Local or intrastate movers, which operate solely within one state, follow regulations set by that specific state's DOT or similar agency. However, interstate movers tackle journeys across state borders and need to comply with stricter federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These federal regulations cover aspects like insurance requirements, driver qualifications, and vehicle safety standards, providing an extra layer of protection for your belongings on long-distance journeys.
How Can You Vet Moving Companies Before You Hire Them?
There are a lot of reputable moving companies out there, but there are also companies that don’t follow regulations and are unsafe. How do you tell the difference? Here are some key tips to help you identify the safest moving companies and avoid any unpleasant surprises:
- License and Insurance: Always check if the company has a valid license for your state (or FMCSA registration for interstate moves). Verify their insurance coverage and understand what's included (basic vs. full-value protection).
- Get Multiple Estimates: Don't settle for the first offer. Obtain in-home estimates from at least 3 movers to compare pricing structures and services. Be wary of estimates that seem too good to be true because they might come back later with hidden fees.
- Research and Reviews: Read online reviews on credible platforms and the company's website. Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any complaints filed against the mover.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask about the moving crew's experience, packing procedures, and how they handle fragile items. Inquire about their claims process in case of damage.
By following these steps you'll be well on your way to selecting a safe and reliable moving company that prioritizes your belongings and peace of mind.
How Does Bailey’s Moving and Storage Ensure Safety?
While the moving industry is heavily regulated, that doesn’t mean that everyone plays by the rules. There are many moving companies that don’t understand or simply ignore requirements for the industry. At Bailey’s Moving & Storage, our safety policy is to always exceed the safety regulations to keep everyone safe.
Here are some examples of Bailey’s Moving’s high safety standards:
- All drivers are rigorously screened. They must pass both thorough drug tests and background checks.
- All drivers must go through a special driver training program when hired and review that program every 3 years.
- All Bailey’s Moving trucks are equipped with cameras that have sensors and AI that determine unsafe driving behaviors such as speeding, hard turns, hard brakes, or running stop signs.
- Drivers are coached by management daily to improve their driving habits.
- Every employee is required to go through a one-hour safety training every month.
- The DOT requires all vehicles be inspected every year. In addition to driver’s daily inspections, all of Bailey’s trucks are thoroughly inspected by a mechanic at least two times per year.
Finding the Safest Moving Company for Your Move
Moving is already a stressful process. You shouldn’t have to worry about safety on top of everything else on your to-do list. That’s why it’s crucial to select a reputable moving company that’s dedicated to ensuring safety for you, your belongings, and the moving team.
Bailey’s Moving and Storage has prioritized your safety in moving for over 70 years. You can learn more about our company values and our moving and storage services here or if you’re ready to book your move, click here to get started on a custom quote.
