ODOT, Multnomah County deputies, cite uncertified movers

ODOT, Multnomah County, cite movers

The joint operation cracks down on unauthorized movers in a Troutdale enforcement

The Oregon Department of Transportation and Multnomah County Sheriff’s deputies cited seven unregistered moving companies Thursday an undercover enforcement action in Troutdale.

In the joint effort, inspectors from ODOT’s Motor Carrier Transportation Division and the sheriff’s deputies checked for compliance with safety regulations and with state laws regulating transportation of household goods.

The seven moving companies, located through public forums, including the Internet, were asked to the house in Troutdale and upon arrival, were checked for compliance with the laws.

All seven companies now face a civil monetary penalty of $1,000 for failing to have the certification necessary to transport household goods in Oregon. The certification process requires movers to demonstrate that they are fit, willing and able to perform the service requested. This means they must meet insurance requirements, operate safe vehicles, qualify their drivers and charge rates approved by ODOT. In addition, criminal background checks are required for company officials and employees.

In the Thursday operation, safety inspections were carried out on eight vehicles – one company brought two trucks – resulting in 20 safety violations. One vehicle had no brakes and was not allowed to leave, one driver had a suspended driver’s license and another driver had no license at all.

Unauthorized movers of household goods have been known target customers with illegal tactics, such as demanding extra money -- sometimes thousands of dollars -- before unloading personal property and in some cases failing to deliver the belongings at all.

These companies often advertise on websites or bulletin boards but consumers don't realize they may not have legal operating authority or insurance and, in some cases, may not operate safe vehicles.

In recent years, ODOT and law enforcement officers have conducted household mover enforcement operations in communities around the state. Operations in Eugene, Fairview, Bend, Beaverton, Canby, Medford, Ashland and Portland resulted in multiple citations for operating without proper authority and other violations, and on occasion, arrests for outstanding criminal warrants and parole violations.

The best way consumers can protect themselves is to hire a certified moving company. A list of certified companies, and a consumer guide to avoid getting scammed, is available online at http://egov.oregon.gov/ODOT/MCT/MOVING.shtml.

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