FALCONER - A lot of experience comes from doing a job for 40 years.
That is why Brian Hasson wanted Mike Macey to continue working after purchasing his business.
In 1972, Macey started Macey Transfer & Storage and built the company from the ground up. He started on Eighth Street in Jamestown with one truck and a 3,000-square-foot warehouse. Through the years by working with companies like United Van Line and Atlas Ban Line, Macey's business continued to grow until he expanded to a new 15,000-square-foot facility in Falconer in 1985. Since then, Macey has built a reputation as being a mover who does everything from long distance and overseas shipping to handling valuable piano moves at the Chautauqua Institution.
Article Photos
Mike Macey, left, and Brian Hasson shake hands to commemorate the creation of Rapid Moving Storage.
P-J photo by Dennis Phillips
''I've been moving pianos at Chautauqua for years. They just don't let anyone do that,'' he said. ''When it comes to moving pianos and safes, each job is different. It takes awhile to know how to get the job done right.''
That is why when Macey sold his company to Hasson, the new owner wanted the crafty veteran to continue working to pass on the tricks of the trade.
''Mike has built a solid reputation of being the highest quality mover in the area. I've never heard anyone say anything negative about him,'' Hasson said. ''People are in awe of his ability when it comes to moving. Now that I've had a chance to work with him, I know why. You can't put a price tag on his knowledge.''
Hasson was in the moving business prior to purchasing Macey's company. Rapid Removal was his first business which hauls and removes people's junk. The business also does lawn care services during the spring and summer and snowplowing during the winter. Now Hasson has renamed Macey's company to be called Rapid Moving Storage, which is located at 1599 Route 394, Falconer.
''I heard Mike was looking to slow down, but I knew people still needed the service,'' Hasson said. ''At Rapid Removal, we built ourselves a quality reputation, but now we're miles ahead after spending time with Mike. I'm excited, looking forward to growing and adding employees.''
Hasson said not only has Macey taught him how to properly do household moves, but also how to be a good business operator.
''He is mentoring me on how to run a business as much as anything. How to be a small business owner,'' he said. ''He has taught me how to be more organized and how you have to constantly be thinking ahead.''
Macey said there is more to being a moving company than picking up a few boxes and heavy furniture and transporting them from one location to another.
''It all starts with the customer. You have to take care of their stuff like it is your own,'' Macey said. ''Once they see that you gain their trust. Then they get out of your way and let you do your job.''
Macey likes the freedom his new semi-retired life has brought. He has a farm in the Falconer area where he raises Arabian race horses, which he takes around the country to compete.
''Mainly I go down to Delaware and run, but I've raced horses in Texas and Florida,'' he said. ''I enjoy my farm with my horses. If I'm not doing that, I'll probably be riding my Harley.''
Rapid Moving Storage office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The business will work with customers to schedule moves for their convenience anytime of day. For more information, call 665-4832. Rapid Removal, which is located at 360 E. Elmwood Ave., Falconer, can be reached by calling 665-GONE (4663).