Moving Networks

What Types of Moving Networks are There?

There are lots of different types of moving networks namely associations, federations and groups.

• Associations are non-profit organisations whose members are moving companies.
• Federations are non-profit organisations of moving associations.
• Groups are for-profit organisations, such as Van Lines, set up by the moving companies for the moving companies; the board and the members will be made up of movers.

Why Move with an Associated Mover?

If quality is important for your move, then you will want to move with an associated mover! Moving networks have entry requirements, ensuring that only movers of the highest quality can join. These standards are maintained to guarantee top tier service is being provided to customers.

Of course, this doesn’t mean moving companies that are not part of a moving network are not good! But, the benefit of booking a mover who is affiliated with a high quality moving network is that you can feel safe knowing you will have a quality move.

However, not all moving associations are the same! Every one will have different requirements, and some of these entry requirements will be more vigorous than others. Be sure to check out each networks website before you choose a moving company.

Now that you know the importance of booking an associated mover, you’re ready for the next step. By filling in our online form below, we can match you with up to 5 moving companies who can facilitate your move. All you have to do is decide which one best suits your requirements! We want to help you move with a smile 🙂

The Top Moving Networks

So, what are the best moving networks? To help you, we have outlined what you can expect from three of the biggest moving networks for South African moving companies.

PMA

The Professional Movers’ Association (PMA) was founded in 1959. It was previously know as the South African Furniture Removers and Warehousemen’s Association (SAFWA).

Today, a PMA mover guarantees superior service, quality and peace of mind. In order to be a PMA member, you must meet their professional standards and code of ethics. If you have an issue with a PMA mover, you can contact the chairperson of the moving association. There’s always someone to help! 

IAM

The International Association of Movers is a moving association for international removal companies. All members must be committed to ethical business practices and to following laws and regulations.

You must have been recommended by at least two other IAM members and pay a fee in order to join. Members must reach IAM’s standards, adhering to the global standard set by ISO. So you can be sure of a quality mover if they’re approved by the IAM!

FIDI Global Alliance

FIDI is an international federation for worldwide removal companies. International moving companies are awarded the FAIM certificate if they meet 200 quality requirements. You can expect the quality of the your mover to be top tier if they meet all those standards! Their criteria covers the following areas:

• Strong focus on end-to-end quality services
• Compliance with anti-bribery, anti-corruption and anti-trust requirements
• Pre-employment screenings– your mover is someone you can trust
• Supply chain management– the movers are responsible for the whole move
• Data privacy protection management– your personal and sensitive data is safe
• Foundation and international moving service requirements– you know your mover is qualified for successful moves abroad

Every three years the moving companies have to undergo an extensive audit, and annual external financial audits by Ernst and Young. If the removal company for some reason goes bankrupt, another FIDI member will take over your move. You won’t be left without a mover!

If you want a FIDI mover, you can recognise them by the logo below or specifically search for FAIM certified removal companies on the “Find a FIDI Affiliate” page. The moving association ‘SAIMA’ is the representative for FIDI in South Africa.

Ready to Book an Associated Mover?

By picking a mover who is part of a moving association, you will give yourself peace of mind during your move. It is important to check the reviews of moving companies to verify the quality of the mover before you book.

We also recommend requesting quotes from several moving companies so you can compare their services and associations and make an informed moving decision.

So congratulations – you are one step closer to completing a successful moving journey! If you have any other moving related queries, read the articles below or explore the Sirelo website. We wish you the best of luck with your move 🙂