Programs & Services
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SMA provides a number of programs to help its members become better movers and vendors.
Pinnacle Mover Program
A certification program developed by the Southwest Movers Association specifically for the moving industry. The primary goal of the program is to promote and recognize professional competence and adherence to ethical standards on the part of movers operating within the five state SMA primary coverage area of Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas and New Mexico.
Click here for more information on the Pinnacle Mover Program
Scholarship Program
The leadership of SMA took a big step forward in 2000 with the scholarship program by forming the SMA Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to building a long-term funding source for our industry’s education programs. Contributions to the foundation are fully tax deductible.
Educational Programs
SMA provides educational workshops and seminars throughout the year to enhance professionalism for its members.
Certification Program
SMA members receive their Certified Movers Professional (CMP) and Certified Claims Analysis (CCA) through the American Moving and Storage Association.
Safety and Compliance Program
SMA has embarked upon a whole new emphasis on safety. Discussions are on-going and a special safety committee was appointed in 2001 to address needs of the members in the area of safety training and compliance. There will be a series of compliance seminars throughout the state to assist owners, general managers, and operations and sales staff with the TxDOT rules and regulations. Upon board approval, a model safety program and manual will be created.
Convention Seminars
Southwest Movers Association sponsors an annual conference and exposition in different locations throughout the state. The conference offers many training and technology seminars at the convention. The two day conference allows participants to take advantage of all seminars as well as other on-going activities. The conference offers a unique opportunity for networking and socializing with your peers.
Consumer Complaint Resolution Program
Effective in 1999, the consumer complaint resolution program once legislatively assigned to SMA was moved over to the Texas Department of Transportation. Because SMA took that role for a while, complaints are still received from consumers. When the mover is a member of SMA, the staff of SMA gives the mover a courtesy call about receiving the complaint. Complaints about non-members are referred directly to TxDOT.
SMA Tariff MAX 3A
The Max 3A tariff is on file with the Texas Department of Transportation and applies only for the account of member movers of SMA. MAX 3A, issued effective April 1, 2000, now provides “look-up” rates in both the line-haul and accessorial sections, making it more user friendly.
Intrastate Texas Max 3A Tariff
Available only to SMA members. The household goods Tariff Max 3A issued effective April 1, 2000, took a general increase effective May 21, 2001 and the line-haul rates increased again on May 1, 2002. The Tariff Max 3A provides maximum rates and charges for the transportation of household goods as defined by the Texas Transportation Code Chapter 643. The tariff along with updates can be purchased only from SMA. Max 3A is on file with the Texas Department of Transportation as the lawful rates of SMA member participating carriers.
Household Goods Moving Forms
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SMA, with input from the Texas Department of Transportation, develops and has available for order household goods moving forms at discount prices.
Form 160 - Moving Services Contract
Amended March 2000 to change the name from Bill of Lading to Moving Services Contract, and to provide for warehouse or storage insurance in addition to the transit.
Form 162 - Moving Services Contract
Amended March 2000 to change the name from Bill of Lading to Moving Services Contract, and to provide a separate contract when offering valuation only and not insurance.
# Form 185 - Proposal for Service
Amended March 2000 to change the name from Estimated Cost of Services to Proposal for Service, and to provide for the option of determining number of hours required for a move at the end of the move.
Form 187 - Inventory
Includes all new symbols (8.5 X 11” size, 4-part carbonless form).
Form 188 - Your Rights and Responsibilities whenYou Move in Texas - pamphlet
TxDOT Rules and Regulations “ 18.55 Information for Shippers (a) When the household goods carrier provides the shipper with an original written proposal, as required in 18.56 of this title (relating to Proposals and Estimates for Moving Services), the household goods carrier shall also provide a copy of the information sheet entitled, Your Rights and Responsibilities When you Move in Texas as prescribed by the director. (b) The household goods carrier may duplicate the department’s form provided the exact text is reproduced in a legible manner in at least 10 point type font. No additional information that interferes or alters the text may be added to the form.” Form 188 available from SMA meets the requirements of the regulations quoted above.
Form 189 - Addendum to Moving Services Contract
The addendum to the moving services contract between the shipper and the carrier is mandatory on all shipments which do not meet the terms and conditions set forth on the Proposal for Service, Moving Services Contract, Government Bill of Lading or any purchase order or letter of authorization received by carrier from shipper. A new addendum must be completed each time the shipper or shipper’s representative requests or approves changes to services previously ordered. Do not amend an addendum after it has been signed by the shipper.
Form 887 - Table of Measurements (cube sheet)
Other forms: SMA can order other forms you may need.
Communications
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Several publications outlining current industry issues and trends are made available to SMA members on a regular basis.
The Bulletin
SMA’s official magazine is produced three times a year to keep members informed of association and industry interests and activities.
MoveFAX
A fax with the latest news from the association and moving industry in Texas is faxed directly to your office.
Legislative Alerts
When the Texas Legislature is in session, SMA monitors all proposed legislation that affects the moving industry and sends out up-to-date information on the issues.
Membership Directory
A publication containing alphabetical listings of member companies, key personnel, phone and fax numbers, email and web addresses. Available only to members of SMA. A ready reference source about “who’s who” in the industry.
Classified Corner
A publication of classified ads for SMA members.
Conference & Trade Show
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SMA holds conferences and trade shows throughout the year for members to participate in.
Conference
SMA’s conference and trade show is a three-day educational event held in September of each year. This event offers a unique opportunity for members to spend time together learning, sharing ideas and participating in educational seminars, scheduled sports and social activities.
Trade Show
The trade show is held in conjunction with the conference, annual meeting of members. Exhibitors displaly what is new in “after market” services and products with optimum networking opportunities. The show enables members to renew contacts and see what’s new in products and services for the moving industry. Activities are scheduled in the exhibit hall to increase exposure.
