In 2008 the MSI commissioned its first industry research study, collecting and reporting comprehensive census and economic impact data on the moving and storage industry on both a national and state level. The resulting report, The Moving and Storage Industry in the U.S. Economy [full report, summary], proved to be a rich resource for AMSA, member companies and the media, and its many facts, figures and charts have appeared in print publications, been quoted in speeches, and supported legislative agendas on Capitol Hill and in many State Houses. This landmark study will continue to serve as a resource and a benchmark for industry growth, as well as additional research, well into the future.

In 2010, the MSI is commissioning a new study to collect and assemble financial benchmarking data on small and medium-sized moving and storage companies, both household goods movers and office movers, in the United States. The study could potentially benefit more than 8,000 moving and storage companies operating in the United States, 96% of whom are small local businesses, and will be particularly useful for van line agents and independent movers who are primarily engaged in moving household goods and/or commercial offices.