Moving Companies 101

There are some things you should know about moving companies when preparing for the big day. There are all kinds of moving companies. There are big ones that have been around for two or three lifetimes. There are the those that are growing quickly as well as ones that are growing slowly. Then there are those that are not recognized or registered with any of the required authorities. But here is some information that you should be able to use to ensure you are getting a legitimate moving company rather than an illegal one. 

There are 81 moving companies that are registered with the State of Alabama. Yes, I know, I was surprised too. Each of those companies work in the same parameters set by the Alabama Public Service Commission. (yes that is what they do). Now depending on your specific move determines whether it is regulated by them or not. 

The state does not care or regulate how much moving companies charge you to move if you stay in the same city or if you move to a neighboring city as long as the cities touch somewhere. The state also does not care how much you are charged for a move out of state. 

The moves that are strictly regulated by the state are moves within the state but that cross jurisdictions. Have I got you confused yet?  
Some examples are:

Birmingham to Hoover- not regulated 
Birmingham to Alabaster- regulated 

Here is where the big difference comes in. If your move is regulated but it is less than 30 miles then it will be charged by the hour that is priced by the state, not the normal rates by the moving company. If you move within the state and it is further than 30 miles it will be priced by the weight. 

We all are working with the same parameters so therefore should not be much difference in your prices. The difference if by the hour will be how fast the movers operate and that is all because the price per hour will be the same. There should be no difference in price when it is by the weight at the end of your move. You may receive differing estimates simply due to opinions of how much weight you may have. But in the end, your weight, the scales in which we weigh the moving trucks, and the mileage you go should be the same. 

Hopefully this will help you to make the best decisions during a stressful time. But always remember help is always available to us all if you are a child of God. 

Philippians 4:6-7: Be anxious for nothing, but by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving make your request known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ.