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Partner organisation to the BIFM, the British Association of Removers (BAR) represents the UK's leading professional removal and storage companies.  The Commercial Moving Group (CMG) is a functional group of BAR which includes removal companies specialising in commercial and office moves.     

The CMG have, after three years' work, developed a new Commercial Moving Standard –BS 8522.  Working with The British Standards Institution (BSi) and other interested groups e.g. professional facilities the standard was formally approved in July 2009 and made a mandatory standard by CMG for all of its members.

The Standard sets the benchmark for all aspects of the commercial moving operation and covers three phases of the work: initial contact, survey and quotation; the carrying out phase and follow-up including quality measurement and remedying the shortcomings.  The Standard requires a demonstrable and measurable level of compliance and achievement against each of these elements.  Systems and procedures that are in place to provide evidence of these are audited and evaluated externally annually to ensure continued adherence and compliance to the standard.

What does this mean in practical terms to the Facilities or Procurement Manager? 

In short, by ensuring that you always use a BAR CMG member, it means that your commercial move will always be conducted to the highest industry standards.  BS 8522 has been developed for the benefit of the Commercial moving sector.  For your own benefit (and peace of mind) you should always choose a commercial remover with the BS 8522 Standard and ensure that all tender documents include this Standard as a minimum requirement.

BAR is the largest and oldest trade association in the removals sector, formed in 1900.  It represents the UK's leading domestic removals companies all of which are covered by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) approved BAR Code of Practice.  All BAR members abide by the Code and are regularly inspected to ensure that their staff, vehicles, premises and facilities meet the required standards set out in the BAR Code of Practice. 

Note: Please seek approval from the OFT or BAR if references about the OFT are made over and above what is contained in this article.

For more information about BAR or the BS 8522 Standard and how it can benefit your organisation, please contact:-

BAR Commercial Department

01923 699 483 / commercial@bar.co.uk