PUC Amends Regulations for Moving Companies

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 19 -- The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission issued the following Transportation and Safety Utilities news release:

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to amend regulations governing Pennsylvania household goods and property carriers in light of increased competition in the industry.

The Commission voted 5-0 to adopt the Order. Modifications to regulations include, or result in, the following changes:

* Eliminating the requirement that an applicant for authority establish a public demand or need for the proposed service;

* Removing the annual revenue threshold and permitting all household goods carriers with qualifying operating ratios to change rates without filing financial justification;

* Eliminating current territorial restrictions to give household goods carriers statewide authority; and

* Increasing minimum insurance requirements for property and household goods carriers to be consistent with federal law.

Due to the nature of the competitive market with low entry barriers, the Commission said competition between household goods carriers in regard to price, quality and reliability will determine whether a carrier's service is needed by the public, deeming the Commission's administrative process unnecessary. Industry competition will be further promoted by lowering these barriers and will provide customers with more choices, lower prices and better, more reliable service.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter - @PA_PUC for all things utility. "Like" PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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