November 3rd, 2009 - Tampa, FL - The AMLPA today took a moderate stance on the new partnership between PODS (Portable on Demand Storage) and UniGroup, the parent company of United Van Lines and Mayflower. The deal which recently made its way to the PODS website is a cooperative partnership in which PODS will refer all of their customers who are seeking moving labor services to UniGroup.
The AMLPA is the moving labor services industry organization, charged with responding to news that effects the industry both positively and negatively. "The deal between PODS and UniGroup is bad for the moving labor services industry, it is a prime example of large companies attempting to squeeze out the smaller competitors" comments William Ferry, a member of the AMLPA board of directors. "Further, the rates they are charging are excessive and take advantage of consumers who may not know where else to look for moving labor help. They're using their brand strength to increase the rates far beyond the industry averages".
"Awareness is key, and we're doing everything we can to educate consumers that the services being offered by UniGroup can be provided in greater quality and for substantially less by using local moving labor companies. The AMLPA is willing to assist any consumer out there locate licensed and insured moving labor companies at an affordable price" comments Jon Hill, another member of the AMLPA board of directors.
In response to the flat rates offered by UniGroup, the AMLPA this week will be launching their own flat rates at a more affordable price. The current UniGroup 16' POD load price is $685 and the unload price is $595. The new flat rates offered by the AMLPA and their members will be available on the AMLPA website at www.amlpa.org in the next few days.



