AI isn't the future...it's happening NOW!
Catch our Free Webinar 12pm today! See below for details.
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Hello,
Spring is finally here, and we’re starting to hear what we’ve all been waiting for...moves are picking up! Let’s hope this is the start of a strong and steady season for everyone.
This time of year is always a great reminder that preparation is everything. From making sure your crews are properly trained, to keeping your paperwork in order, to staying consistent with your marketing, the companies that stay proactive are the ones that stay ahead.
We’ve also seen some great engagement at our recent events and training seminars. It’s been especially encouraging to see new faces getting involved alongside our long-time members. That kind of participation is what keeps our industry moving forward. When we invest in learning, share ideas, and support one another, we all benefit.
As we head into the busy season, it’s also important to stay sharp on the regulatory side of the business.
The investigator from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs recently shared that they’ve been receiving an increase in inquiries, particularly from companies new to the industry, regarding short notice moving and warehousing.
For clarification, “short notice” refers to same-day service. Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 13:44D-4.2, 4.3 and 4.4, a public mover and/or warehouseman shall not perform a move, or provide warehouse services, on the same day a consumer contacts them, except under specific permitted circumstances.
As a reminder, short notice service is only permitted under the following circumstances:
• Eviction
• No-show (failure of the scheduled movers arrival)
• Fire
• When the total cost of the move (not the estimate) does not exceed $1,000
Staying compliant protects your business, your customers, and the reputation of our industry as a whole. If you’re ever unsure how a regulation applies, don’t guess, reach out. That’s what we’re here for.
Let’s keep the momentum going and make it a busy, successful, and compliant season for everyone.
I hope you’ll join us for our upcoming Appreciation Night on April 9th at Booyah Bar in Mahwah, it's our way of saying thank you for your continued support and we'd love to see you there! Click here for more information.
Wishing you all a great Spring.
Tracy Brito Denora, Executive Director
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35th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing - May 7th
Our Annual Golf Outing is right around the corner on May 7th, and we’d love to see you there!
Reserve your foursome today or come out solo, we’ll be happy to pair you up. It’s always a great day of networking, fun, and friendly competition.
This event supports our Scholarship Fund, helping invest in the future of our industry. If you’re unable to attend, please consider sponsoring a hole. At just $100, it’s a simple and meaningful way to give back and show your support.
Registration and sponsorship details are HERE, we hope to see you on the course!
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Governor Sherrill Capitol Update:
FY27 Proposed State Budget
Governor Sherrill has released the proposed FY2027 State Budget, outlining priorities focused on economic growth, infrastructure investment, and workforce development across New Jersey.
Of particular interest to the moving and storage industry, the proposal includes continued investment in transportation infrastructure, which can directly impact road conditions, traffic flow, and overall efficiency for moving operations. Funding for workforce development and training programs may also help address ongoing labor shortages by supporting CDL training and skilled worker pipelines. Continue reading.
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FMCSA Cracks Down on CDL Integrity to Boost Industry Safety
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is taking steps to strengthen the integrity of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), with a renewed focus on preventing fraud and ensuring drivers are properly qualified.
These updates are aimed at addressing growing concerns around CDL testing and licensing practices, including the use of third-party testers and potential inconsistencies in driver qualification standards. The goal is simple: keep unqualified drivers off the road and improve overall safety across the industry. Continue reading.
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Women Moving Women Beach Day! | |
Our annual Women Moving Women Beach Day is ON! ☀️
We’ll be heading back to Funtown Beach in Seaside Park on July 22, 2026.
Before I reserve the cabana sponsored by Smurfit Westrock Packaging Solutions, I need a headcount. Please take a quick second to complete this survey by clicking HERE.
| New Jersey Implements New CDL Medical Certification Process | |
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) has implemented an important update to the CDL medical certification process with the introduction of National Registry II (NRII).
This enhancement allows medical examiners to electronically submit a driver’s medical certification directly to the NJMVC, eliminating the need for drivers to manually provide documentation. The result is a more efficient, accurate, and streamlined process for maintaining CDL compliance. Continue reading.
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| FROM THE BOARD ROOM: Board’s Perspective |
Chris Agostisi
Smurfit Westrock
Packaging Solutions
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Why Showing Up Matters
One of the things that makes this Association so valuable isn’t just the meetings or the education, it’s the relationships we build along the way.
Events like our upcoming Appreciation Night give us a chance to step away from the day-to-day and connect in a more relaxed setting. It’s an opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, meet new members, and have conversations that don’t always happen during a busy workday.
These moments matter more than we sometimes realize. The connections we make often lead to shared ideas, support, and a stronger sense of community within our industry.
In an industry like ours, where challenges can come up quickly and no two days are ever the same, having a network of peers you can rely on makes a real difference. Whether it’s sharing advice, learning from someone else’s experience, or simply knowing you’re not navigating things alone, those relationships become invaluable over time.
I encourage you to join us. It’s a great way to stay connected, unwind a bit, and be part of what makes this Association so strong. I look forward to seeing you at the 2026 NJWMA events. Warm regards, Chris
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FMCSA Launches Campaign to Stop Moving Scams
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has launched a new consumer education campaign aimed at protecting the public from fraudulent and unscrupulous household goods movers.
This initiative focuses on increasing awareness around common moving scams, helping consumers understand their rights, and encouraging them to verify that movers are properly licensed and registered. By providing accessible resources and guidance, FMCSA hopes to reduce fraud and improve transparency across the industry. Continue reading.
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Movers for Moms:
Giving Back to Our Community
Join Denise Blaisdell, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK of Ocean Twp. for their annual Movers for Moms® event, a meaningful evening of networking, food, and giving back. April 22, 6pm to 8pm; 1113 NJ-35, Ocean Twp., NJ. If you can't make the event your donation supports 180 Turning Lives Around, helping survivors and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. Bring an item to donate and connect with fellow professionals while making a difference just ahead of Mother’s Day. Here's a link to their Amazon Wishlist.
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In Case You Missed It...
We’ve had a lot of requests for the recording of our recent insurance webinar—and for good reason. It was a great session with valuable insight on how DOT violations, CSA scores, and inspections are impacting insurance renewals.
You can watch the full recording here: https://youtu.be/yRtvqCaL9vU
If you’re concerned about rising premiums or non-renewals, give a watch!
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Busy Season is Coming: Are You Ready?
As we approach peak moving season, preparation is key to running smooth and profitable operations.
Now is the time to make sure your crews are fully staffed and trained, your trucks and equipment are in top condition, and your schedules are realistic and efficient. Small issues now can quickly turn into big problems once demand ramps up.
Clear communication with customers, proper planning, and strong internal coordination can make all the difference during your busiest months. A little preparation now goes a long way toward a successful season.
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Above is an informative video your sales team can share with potential customers explaining valuation. | |
Understanding Liability:
What Movers Need to Know
As a reminder, for intrastate moves in New Jersey, the standard liability is $1.00 per pound, per article.
It’s important that this is clearly communicated to customers and properly documented in your paperwork.
Misunderstandings around valuation and coverage are one of the leading causes of disputes and claims.
Taking the time to explain options, ensure accurate inventories, and maintain complete documentation can help protect both your company and your customers.
Staying consistent with these practices not only reduces risk, but also reinforces professionalism and trust.
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Managing Fuel Costs in a Changing Market
Fuel costs continue to fluctuate, making it important for movers to stay on top of their pricing strategies.
Reviewing and adjusting your fuel surcharge regularly ensures that your rates accurately reflect current conditions. Just as important is communicating these charges clearly to customers upfront to avoid confusion.
Staying proactive with pricing helps protect your margins while maintaining transparency and trust with your clients.
Keeping a close eye on fuel trends can make a big difference in your bottom line over time.
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Storage Vaults For Sale
Storage vaults for sale standard size. Selling in groups of 10. $50.00 per vault.
Please contact:
Bob Reeves 856-753-7400 ext. 17 Bob@sinclairmoving.com
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Built On Trust.
New name, same trusted partner.
When you choose Smurfit Westrock Packaging Solutions (formally Victory Packaging) you have the confidence of knowing that you not only have the best packaging solution for your products, but for your business. We carry out full service packaging solutions that help you stand out, going above and beyond every customer’s expectations and every competitor’s capabilities.
Contact: Chris Agostisi, T 800.799.2176 | M 609 369 6214
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Insuring Your Success
Commercial insurance brokers and risk management consultants.
Contact Michael P. Egan Jr. CIC
215-491-2704
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Packing Materials for All Your Needs
United Brokerage Packaging is a full-line packing material supplier encompassing the Eastern Seaboard. In business for over 50 years, serving the moving and storage industry and manufacturers varying from food products to light automotive. We specialize in corrugated packaging, tapes, poly protection films, and bubble, all forms of plastic packaging, returnable bins, and many forms of paper dunnage.
Contact your rep: Ryan Moore - 302-463-4864
ryan@ubpackaging.com | https://www.ubpackaging.com/
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Our Vision
To be the trusted voice and leading force for New Jersey’s moving and storage industry, promoting professionalism, protecting consumers, and empowering members to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Strength IS Unity!
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