Flashbacks to COVID with Skyrocketing Ocean Freight Rates
International Association of Movers
The global champion for the moving industry, advancing the professionalism and operational excellence of our members.
“Rising freight rates are a new source of concern in the global supply chain with forecasts warning that ocean cargo prices could reach $20,000 — potentially even touch the Covid era peak of $30,000 — and stay there into 2025.”
Strike Looms as Biggest U.S. Ports Union Suspends Labor Talks
Another concerning ocean freight story broke last week when it was reported that the International Longshoremen’s Association had suspended talks scheduled for this week with the United States Maritime Alliance over a new labor contract.
“The ILA is the largest longshoreman union in North America, representing 85,000 members. The ILA’s master contract with the United States Maritime Alliance—which represents terminal operators and ocean carriers—is set to expire Sept. 30.”
Don't Miss Out: Early Bird Registration Closes in 15 Days
The countdown is on! Our Early Bird registration window closes on July 5, giving you just 15 days to secure your discounted rate at the IAM Annual Meeting & Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, October 14–17, 2024 at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Click here to register now. Take advantage of our early bird pricing and save $200, leaving you extra spending money for fun in Las Vegas!
If you have been considering Premier membership, upgrade now to enjoy a 10% discount on sponsorship packages, the early bird rate regardless of the date you register, and after three full annual meeting registrations, Premier members get a 15% discount on any additional registrations.
The membership upgrade process is easy. Contact Matthieu Odijk at matthieu.odijk@iamovers.org to learn more about the benefits of Premier membership.
IAM Responds to defense.gov Article that Quotes Misleading Customer Satisfaction Statistics
On June 4th, the online publication for the U.S. Department of Defense - Defense.gov - published a misleading article disparaging the service our members provide.
U.S. Mortgage Rates Slide Closer to 7%
While global shipping costs continue to skyrocket, there was a good piece of economic news last week in the world’s largest mobility market. The consumer price index, which measures inflation in the United States, came in lower than expected in May sparking a drop in mortgage rates. The U.S. Federal Reserve had expected an inflation reading of 3.4%.
Although interest rates remain unchanged, it is a small positive indicator that inflation may be heading toward the Federal Reserve’s preferred number of 2%. This could then set the conditions for a drop in interest and mortgage rates, which would be a boon to homebuyers in the U.S. and by extension the moving industry.
Singapore Port Container Logjam Worsens as Ships Avoid Red Sea
Singapore’s port, already one of the busiest in the world, is facing a sustained period of congestion as vessel diversions to avoid the Red Sea push more container ships to the Asian maritime hub. Attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea have resulted in shipowners opting not to transit the Suez Canal and taking the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. That means they don’t get a chance to refuel or unload cargo at ports in the Middle East, leading to worsening marine gridlock in the waters off Singapore.
Nearly $40,000 USD Raised To Support Industry Professionals
A grand applause to all of our donors! We are deeply grateful and extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you. Special thanks to Donald Goldberg and Gridiron Forwarding Co., Inc. for spearheading this campaign.
IAM Participates in the National Council of Moving Associations Annual Meeting
The National Council of Moving Associations (NCMA) held its annual meeting in early June in Denver, CO. Comprised of Moving Association executives from State, National, and international industry associations, the informal group of association colleagues met to share industry updates and initiatives, as well as association best practices, for the betterment of their association and the industry at large.
Updated 2024 Edition of the Professional Cooperation Guidelines Available on IAMX
The updated 2024 edition of the FIDI Professional Cooperation Guidelines (PCGs) is now available through IAMX’s support tab under 'PCG Guidelines & Download Page' once you log in. This edition replaces previous versions.
The PCGs serve as an operational manual and best practices document for how companies in the moving industry should work together to service international shipments, whether as booker, origin, or destination agent.
IAM’s endorsement and use of the PCGs enhances our ability to settle conflicts between members in a fair and speedy manner via the IAM Issue Resolution System. With this process based on a standardized set of rules drafted by industry experts, IAM is much better-equipped to resolve disputes between members before they affect the customer.
We encourage each Member company to read through the PCGs and acknowledge that it will agree to abide by these principles at a minimum. Companies with validated listings on the IAM Mobility Exchange can upload their completed acknowledgement form to the platform.
Nominate Someone Amazing Today!
The Rising Star Award recognizes an IAM-YP who has significantly contributed to professional development, networked effectively within the young professional community, and engaged in philanthropic activities that impact the global moving and mobility sector.
The Excellence in Leadership Award honors someone who has contributed significantly to the moving and mobility industry. The award recognizes leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to growth, practical and motivational leadership, and equitable work environments.
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Nominating a colleague or leader for the Rising Star Award or the Excellence in Leadership Award is more than just an acknowledgment; it celebrates that person’s positive contribution to their company, the Association, and the global moving and mobility industry as a whole. Nominating someone for these awards is your opportunity to highlight those who make a difference, inspire growth, and lead by example.
Nominate your candidate today! Both the Excellence in Leadership and Rising Star awards are open and nominations will close on August 3.
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IAM Membership Updates
Visit the IAMX Alerts Page for the latest IAM Membership Updates including but not limited to New Members This Month, Prospective Members Next Month, Membership Cancellation Lists, Alleged Debtors, Bankruptcies & Liquidations, Expulsions, and Companies Misusing the IAM Name & Logo.
@ Jim Gaw Appointed as President of Bekins Van Lines
Bekins Van Lines is happy to welcome back Jim Gaw, this time as their organization's president. Jim was their VP, International in the early 2000s. While things in the industry have changed, Bekins is confident that his experience since then has him well-placed to lead their van line and drive strategic growth.
Atlas Van Lines Announces Retirement of Vice President of Business Development, Successor
Following a dedicated 42-year career at Atlas Van Lines, Mary Beth Johnson, Vice President, Business Development, has announced her retirement. She will be succeeded in the role by the newly hired Lauren Piekos who brings a wealth of experience from the consumer packaging goods industry to Atlas.
During her tenure, Johnson led Atlas through multiple industry-changing initiatives to ensure the organization remained a leading van line. Her leadership has been felt in departments from Revenue Management to Business Development to Marketing, and always made a difference.
“It has been my privilege to work beside Mary Beth throughout my entire career at Atlas. On behalf of the Atlas team, we wish her happiness and joy during her retirement,” said Ryan McConnell, President and COO of Atlas Van Lines. “We look forward to Lauren joining the team to complete a seamless knowledge transfer and transition of leadership from Mary Beth and look forward to the new places she will help guide us.”
Arpin International Group Wins 2024 Excellence in ESG Award from Relocate Global
Arpin International Group has been presented with the prestigious 2024 Excellence in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) award from Relocate Global. Caroline Curik, Director of Business Development from Arpin’s German office, graciously accepted the award on behalf of the company on Thursday, June 6, at a glittering awards ceremony at Two Temple Place, London.
Fire at Gosselin Brucargo (Brussels Zaventem, BE)
On Thursday, June 13, 2024, a fire broke out during roofing work at a Gosselin warehouse near Brussels airport. This warehouse is mainly used for airfreight shipments by our logistics department, meaning for commodities other than household goods. The staff managed to evacuate safely, and emergency services quickly arrived on the scene to control the fire.
“Although no injuries occurred, the material damage is significant despite the magnificent efforts of the emergency services,” says Marc Smet, CEO, expressing his gratitude to the emergency services. “We would like to thank all colleagues at Brucargo and from Gosselin Logistics overall, who spontaneously offered their help.”
“We understand that 5 household goods air shipments were present in the warehouse during the fire and are probably affected. Customers and partners that are affected are currently being informed. Business continuity is guaranteed, also for air shipments to and from Belgium,” says Marcel Jörg, CEO of the Gosselin Moving division.
Arkpol Group Expands to Mechelen, Belgium
The Arkpol Group is pleased to announce the opening of its new location in Mechelen, Belgium. This strategic expansion marks an important milestone in the Arkpol Group’s growth and underlines its commitment to providing world-class services where they are needed most.
“Our expansion into Belgium is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our partners,” said Aleksander Redkie, CEO of Arkpol Group. “Our presence in the heart of the Benelux region allows us to offer better prices, faster availability and greater flexibility. We are excited about the opportunities this expansion brings and look forward to working with companies across the region.”