TALLAHASSEE, Fla. –
June 21, 2013 – Complaints are rising over a scam where moving companies
provide low-ball estimates to customers and, once the truck is loaded, inflate
fees and holding customers’ possessions hostage until they pay more.
These scammers sometimes even threaten to auction off belongings unless the people moving come up with more money to pay them.
While a scam could happen with any move, Florida has laws to protect people who must relocate. However, Florida law applies only to those moves that begin and end within the state – intrastate moves. An interstate move – one that begins and ends in different states – has fewer legal protections.
How can clients avoid being duped? Consumer Reports suggests collecting estimates from at least three companies, and being cautious about companies that don’t provide an address or licensing information. It also recommends using a mover with a marked truck who puts everything in writing. Avoid companies that require large upfront deposits, Consumer Reports warns, and check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against companies.
Recently, New Jersey officials uncovered 25 unlicensed moving companies with listings on sites such as Craigslist and Angie’s List accused of duping customers with a moving scam.
Those who feel they’ve been scammed should contact their state attorney general, consumer protection agency, or licensing agency. Consumers should contact police if they feel a mover is illegally holding their possessions.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration oversees interstate moves between two states. Their website allows consumers to search registered movers and has instructions on how to submit complaints.
For an overview of state law applicable to moving, visit the Florida Division of Consumer Services. It offers an overview of the law, tips for moving and a way to submit complaints.
These scammers sometimes even threaten to auction off belongings unless the people moving come up with more money to pay them.
While a scam could happen with any move, Florida has laws to protect people who must relocate. However, Florida law applies only to those moves that begin and end within the state – intrastate moves. An interstate move – one that begins and ends in different states – has fewer legal protections.
How can clients avoid being duped? Consumer Reports suggests collecting estimates from at least three companies, and being cautious about companies that don’t provide an address or licensing information. It also recommends using a mover with a marked truck who puts everything in writing. Avoid companies that require large upfront deposits, Consumer Reports warns, and check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against companies.
Recently, New Jersey officials uncovered 25 unlicensed moving companies with listings on sites such as Craigslist and Angie’s List accused of duping customers with a moving scam.
Those who feel they’ve been scammed should contact their state attorney general, consumer protection agency, or licensing agency. Consumers should contact police if they feel a mover is illegally holding their possessions.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration oversees interstate moves between two states. Their website allows consumers to search registered movers and has instructions on how to submit complaints.
For an overview of state law applicable to moving, visit the Florida Division of Consumer Services. It offers an overview of the law, tips for moving and a way to submit complaints.
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