March 5, 2008

Docket Number – TV-072258 & TV-070466

OLYMPIA, Wash. – State utilities staff members will hold three statewide training sessions next week to discuss new rule changes for moving companies’ owners within Washington. The sessions are free.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) has scheduled the three meetings as follows:

· 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 11 at Cavanaugh’s Hotel, 9 North 9th St., Yakima.
· 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 12 at the Mirabeau Park Hotel, N. 1100 Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley
· 9 a.m. Thursday, March 13 at the Doubletree Guest Suites, 16500 Southcenter Parkway, Seattle

A major UTC rule change requires Washington moving companies to provide customers with written estimates for every move, not just when the customer requests one. Companies are also required to give customers a helpful moving guide booklet (English and Spanish versions available) with each written estimate. Another change requires movers to obtain insurance for the household goods it carries before obtaining an operating permit. In addition, moving companies must give customers who are dissatisfied with the company the UTC’s contact information to resolve any disputes that may have occurred during a move.

Moving companies in Washington are required to get a permit from the UTC before operating. Customers may contact the UTC at 1-800-562-6150 or at its website (www.utc.wa.gov) to find out if a company has a permit.

English and Spanish copies of the moving guide booklet are available on the UTC’s Web site: www.utc.wa.gov.

The Utilities and Transportation Commission is a state agency that regulates and enforces consumer protection and safety standards for all residential-moving companies operating in Washington.