In December, Chris Lantz, Chairman of the DAB (Domestic Asset-based Mover Group) in the USA presented his annual round up of progress within this relatively new organisation aimed at addressing the needs of the nation’s moving companies.

Chris said that the DAB grew by 44 members in 2022.  Right now, there are 35 states represented, which is about 74% of the US. The goal for 2023 is to fill in the remaining states to have at least one member in each. DAB-eligible members must be US asset-based movers that are independents or van line agents with trucks, crews, and warehouses. They should also already be IAM members.   Chris asked all existing DAB members to contact him or Daniel Bradley for more information if they had prospects in mind.

The new DAB Ally program has been successful with 21 companies participating. The DAB Allies are a special group of industry suppliers who make a commitment to support DAB functions not only with their sponsorships but also by providing products, services and resources that specifically benefit US-based movers. There is no additional cost to Core and Premier members who meet the DAB Ally criteria and wish to become members.

Chris explained that throughout 2022 DAB has highlighted industry topics of interest including: electronic Inventories, DoD storage issues, FMCSA rule changes and diversification. It has also directed members towards relevant IAM Learning programmes and IAM Mobility Exchange to help companies maximise their exposure. DAB has also hosted its DAB Hour every month to provide additional opportunities for learning and collaboration.

One of the DAB’s biggest wins of the year was a joint effort with other IAM members to delay the DoD electronic inventory mandate for 2023 peak season. Chris said this was creating a lot of unrest for van operators who would be using it, because there wasn’t a clear understanding of whether a specific product would be required under the Global Household Goods Contract (GHC). For example, would movers have to purchase and train on one system and then make an additional purchase when GHC determined the standard? He said the delay would give TSPs (Transport Service Providers) time to review options and make the right decision for their business.

DAB had 76 companies and 19 DAB Allies represented at November’s IAM conference in Atlanta.  The organisation hosted its first Official Afterparty benefiting Move For Hunger and raising more than $26,000 for the organisation.

Photo:  Chris Lantz.