Qwest, AT&T, Verizon join forces to find new customers

The last remnants of the Ma Bell telecommunications monopoly have created a Web site designed to help movers find localized services including telephone, Internet, and television services. Qwest Communications Inc., AT&T Communications Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. have created Movearoo, a one-stop Web site that offers users everything they need to know about finding the support systems for a new home.

One thing missing from the site is information about of cable-deployed television or broadband providers. Movearoo has no information about communication service competition such as cable companies like Cox Communications Inc. and wireless bundled service providers like XO Wireless Communications Inc.

There is no mention of cellular telephone services either.

Telecommunications analysts have wondered what the three federally-regulated monopolies would do to recoup tens of thousands of lost customers to cable and wireless telephone providers. This is an obvious attempt to find customers who are opting out of contracts when moving into new homes, some said.

According to information supplied by Movearoo, approximately 57 million people are expected to move this year. The Web site lists utility providers, furniture stores, insurance providers and dozens of other resources movers will need when changing locations.

The free site launched July 9, 2008. Users type in their new address into the site and Movearoo provides resources to:

• Set up gas and electric service;
• Change mailing address without a trip to the post office;
• Request mover quotes and order moving supplies;
• Find tips and manage the move process using an interactive checklist;
• Subscribe to newspapers delivery, and other home services, at a new address;
• Research and rent home appliances, furniture and more

“When families across the country make the decision to move, they can count on Movearoo to help make that process easier. Movearoo.com is one of the most convenient and efficient places online to comparison shop, and order more than a dozen critical move and home-related services – all from one place,” said Movearoo officials in a released statement.

Online comparison-shopping company WhiteFence will mange the site.

Analysts predict the next year will be tough on both Qwest and Verizon. Both companies have asked the Federal Communications Commission for relief from wholesale rate regulation in a number of metropolitan areas, including Phoenix. The companies blame increased competition from cable and wireless communication providers for their continuously shrinking customer base.

Recently, Qwest lowered its 2008 outlook to investors, again citing competition from wireless and cable providers. Qwest CEO Edward Mueller said at a Deutsche Bank conference in New York that the company will be near or below its $13.8 billion in sales. Operating earnings are expected to be flat as well.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of Verizon workers may go on strike when the labor contracts between the company and the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers expires on Aug. 2.

Ty Young can be reached at ty@aztechnews.net.