RIM International ProMover Certification Explained

The International ProMover certification is part of the Registered International Mover (RIM) program created by the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA).

It is aimed to assist customers using international household goods relocation services and is intended to facilitate easier choices, making it simpler to differentiate between the options and find the right mover.

Key facts about the organisation:

1. More than 200 companies and 1000+ individuals currently hold either the corporate or individual RIM certification.
2. The Registered International Mover is one of a range of professional certifications for specialists administered by AMSA.
3. AMSA is the national trade association for the American moving and storage industry. However the certification has global reach and companies all over the world can apply for it.
4. The Registered International Mover programme is designed to set universal standards for international moving companies and their staff.
5. RIM certified companies that meet the ProMover requirements will become “International ProMovers.”
6. RIM is fairly unique in that it was created in 1994 by representatives from the HHGFAA, NMSA (AMSA), ERC, OMNI, FIDI and the top 10 van lines, a mix of buyers and competitive sellers.

RIM organisation profile

The process for becoming a RIM member involves rigorous training, verification and testing, focused on whether standards of equipment handling are in place and whether a business has the resource to manage an international move to a high standard.

The idea behind the ProMover certification is that it is only given to those businesses that can prove they are meeting the highest ethical principles and practices of the moving and storage industry.

What makes the ProMover certification different is that it provides a standardised, independent way for customers to differentiate between options and choose a qualified company for an international move, wherever that business may be based.

Criteria for membership

• At least a year’s experience in international household goods relocation services
• Unblemished membership of AMSA for at least 18 months
• Have the operating authority required to legally perform the business, whether in US or elsewhere.
• Pass a written exam (individual on behalf of company)
• Meet the RIM standards for equipment, facilities and security documentation – these are verified by surprise on site visits.
• Subscribe to the International ProMover Code of Ethics
• For re-certification, at least three employees must be certified (office staff, packers or crewmembers)
• BBB rating of “C” or better, for companies rated by the BBB, in countries where BBB ratings are available
• AMSA staff review of any complaints
• References from business partners are essential

Top 10 member companies (by size)

1. United Van Lines
2. Atlas Van Lines International
3. Mayflower Transit
4. North American Van Lines
5. Wheaton World Wide Moving
6. Bekins Van Lines
7. Graebel Van Lines
8. Arpin Van Lines
9. Stevens Worldwide Van Lines
10. Suddath
11. VIP Transport
12. Royal Hawaiian Movers

Opinions about the organisation

A number of movers include the RIM certification on their websites and several advice sites refer to it as the sign of a professional moving organisation. Every site that includes it references the rigorous training and verification that is required to obtain the certification – and to maintain it.

Financial soundness and a reputation for providing a high quality service are two of the other qualities that are attached to the RIM certification by movers who mention it on their websites. Most make a point of highlighting how the certification requires ongoing action – training and education on an ongoing basis, as well as being able to pass random site visits.

The fact that adherence to a strict code of practice is also required is mentioned too.

Several movers also quote the ProMover qualification – this is important because “This achievement will give our customers the assurance they are dealing with a legitimate, professional mover and not a fly-by-night con artist out to rip them off. Becoming a ProMover is consistent with our company’s long history of treating our customers fairly and honestly.”

It is pointed out that the qualification allows a moving company to display the bold capital “M” logo that is the mark of a ProMover in its advertising and marketing materials as well as on its website.

How it is portrayed by movers:

The agency certification establishes that an agency has sufficient equipment, facilities and RIM® certified personnel to meet the minimum RIM® standards. It further requires that a principle or managing executive pass an examination based on the RIM® manual and that he/she possesses the knowledge necessary to conduct international business. Additionally, within a period of three years of initial certification, a RIM® certified agent must employ a RIM® certified surveyor, coordinator, and at least three certified international packers.

– Castine Movers

Registered International Mover (RIM) certification is voluntary. In order to become certified a moving company must go through rigorous training and testing. Certification ensures that the holder is knowledgeable of all aspects of an international move.

– New World Van Lines

To remain certified management and personnel, within three years, must complete a minimum of 15 hours of RIM approved continuing education and training, and the company’s facilities and equipment must be subject to re-inspection every three years. To date there are over 142 moving and storage companies that have completed the initial stage of RIM program.

– Moving Scam

For certification under the RIM (Registered International Mover) Program, a mover must be financially sound, have a reputation for quality service, and agree to a strict code of practice designed to ensure your total satisfaction.

– Taylor International Movers