How To Report Moving Scams And Protect Your Rights

When it comes to moving, the last thing you want to worry about is falling victim to a scam. Unfortunately, moving scams are all too common, with over 1,550 complaints reported to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in just the past year alone.
Ever faced unexpected charges or discovered damage to your possessions after a move? If so, you're not alone. With these scams on the rise, how can you protect yourself and your belongings?
Handling moving companies can be tricky, but knowing how to report these scams and assert your consumer rights is crucial. 
In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to take if you encounter a moving scam.

Legal Framework of Moving Services

The legal framework that governs moving services is your safeguard against dishonest practices. It ensures that moving companies operate openly and treat customers fairly. But what does this mean for you if you run into a moving scam?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate moving companies and requires them to register with the Department of Transportation. This means that any reputable moving company should have a DOT number.
Did you know that moving companies must give you a booklet called "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move"? This booklet is full of useful information, helping you understand what to expect and what your rights are.
About 60% of moving disputes involve hidden fees, making it crucial to be aware of what the law says about estimates and contracts. 
Your contract with the moving company is the key element when exposing scams and fraud. This legally binding agreement should clearly explain the services, costs, timelines, and insurance details. If a moving company adds hidden fees or keeps your belongings, it is breaking the law. You can easily sue them by showing that binding agreement. 
In short, knowing your rights and being informed is the best way to guard against moving scams.

Steps to Take After Identifying Moving Scams

Finding out that you have been scammed by a moving company can be incredibly frustrating, but don't worry—there are steps you can take to handle the situation. 
Here's what you should do:

• Stay Calm and Gather Information: First things first, take a deep breath and collect all the paperwork related to your move. This includes contracts, receipts, emails, and any communication you had with the moving company. 
• Contact the Moving Company: Call the moving company to explain your concerns. Sometimes, issues can be resolved with a straightforward conversation. Be polite but firm in expressing your dissatisfaction.
• File a Complaint with the FMCSA: If talking to the company doesn’t help, file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). They oversee interstate movers and can investigate your complaint. You can do this online through the FMCSA’s National Consumer Complaint Database.
• Report to the Better Business Bureau (BBB): Next, file a complaint with the BBB. They can help mediate your situation and will keep a record of the company's behaviour, which can alert other consumers.
• Contact Your State’s Consumer Protection Office: Reach out to your state’s consumer protection office. They handle complaints against businesses and can offer you guidance.
• Leave Reviews and Share Your Experience: Remember to warn others by leaving reviews on listing websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the BBB's site. You can also share your story with us, and we will share it with a larger audience. 
• Consider Legal Action: If you have lost a significant amount of money, it might be worth talking to a lawyer. They can help you understand your options and possibly take the moving company to small claims court.
• Check Your Insurance: Look over your insurance policies to see if they cover any of your losses. Sometimes, homeowner or renter insurance includes coverage for moves.

How to Report Moving Scams

Legally reporting a moving scam is essential to get justice and prevent others from being victimized. Here's what you need to do:

Local Law Enforcement
If the scam includes theft or fraud, make sure to report it to your local police department. Make sure to provide detailed information about the moving company, including names, contact info, moving date, and a description of the scam.

File a Complaint with the FMCSA
Report the scam to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which oversees interstate movers. You’ll need to provide the mover’s name, USDOT number, details about the scam, and any supporting documentation to back up your claim.

Report to the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
File a complaint on the BBB’s website. The BBB will forward your complaint to the company, which then has 14 days to respond. Additionally, the BBB keeps a record of complaints, which can impact the company’s rating.

Contact Your State's Consumer Protection Office
Each state has a consumer protection office that handles complaints against businesses. Find your state’s office and file a complaint with them.

Notify the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)
If the moving company is a member, report the scam to the AMSA. They have a Code of Ethics that members must follow, and they can take action against the company.

Submit a Complaint to the Attorney General
File a complaint with your state's Attorney General's office. They handle consumer protection issues and can take legal action against fraudulent companies.