Certification Requirements

The AMLPA is dedicated to providing consumers with the highest quality moving labor services providers in the nation. Further, we're adamant about increasing public opinion and awareness of the industry by having stringent requirements from all members.

If you do not meet the certification guidelines but you can still join the AMLPA as a non-certified member. Both certified and non-certified members will receive a AMLPA badge for their website.

Requirements for Certified Members

Licensed (If Applicable)
While few states currently have a moving labor license, some do. If no license is required you generally still need a privilege license (also known as occupational licensed) and a tax account.

Duration of Business
Certified member applicants must be in business at least one full year. This allows sufficient time to establish a reputation which is necessary to determine if the company fits our criteria.

Email Address That Corresponds to Your Business
It is preferred that all members have an email at their domain (e.g. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ), however we understand that some companies do not have a website. Therefor, we require all applicants to have an email with their business name in it. For example, mycompany@gmail/verizon/yahoo or similar.

Minimum Service Rates
A professional moving labor company that meets the requirements listed should charge a minimum of $30/hr per man. This rate must be verifiable and listed on your website or other web advertising source.

In "Good Standing" with your states Divisions of Corporations or similar department
A business is required to file with the individuals state department that oversees businesses. In Maryland, this is the Department of Assessments and Taxation while in Florida this is the Department of Corporations, each state varies. If you are a sole proprietor you are required to file a DBA (Doing Business As) and if you are a corporation you are required to file your articles or organization of incorporation and pay a yearly fee. This must be completed to be in "good standing".

General Liability Insurance
General liability is a must have for all businesses, especially moving labor. A minimum policy is usually $1,000,000.

Released Valuation
A damage payout of $0.60/lb for items your company damages while on site. Federal regulations require full service moving companies to offer it while there is no current regulation on moving labor companies. It is a requirement for our certification that you offer this to your customers.

Three Hour Minimums
Two hour minimums have become the standard and do not represent quality and it is the goal to increase the standard to three hours. We understand the need for a lower minimum to meet the needs of small moves, in this case we recommend establishing a "Small Move Program".

Uniformed & Clean Cut Personnel
All movers should be clean cut and wearing a company shirt. Professionalism is a major component of quality.

Providing loading, unload and packing services
These are the minimum service requirements. Additional services we look for are office installations, crating and visual surveys.