ODOT and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office warn consumers about illegal household goods movers

Oregon Department of Transportation sent this bulletin at 08/27/2013 03:19 PM PDT

August 27, 2013

13-170

 

For more information:

Dave Thompson, ODOT, 503-860-8021, David.H.Thompson@odot.state.or.us

Deputy John Naccarato, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, 503-785-5092, JohnNac@co.clackamas.or.us

ODOT and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office warn consumers about illegal household goods movers

The Oregon Department of Transportation and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Deputies netted three companies operating illegally in an undercover enforcement “sting” on unlicensed or uninsured household goods movers today. Inspectors issued eight citations to the companies and/or their drivers. None of the companies was properly certified.

Consumer protection is a key goal of this operation. Illegal household goods movers often advertise on websites or bulletin boards, offering to help people move for a fee. Many consumers don't realize these companies don't have legal operating authority or insurance and, in some cases, safe vehicles and drivers.

 

In Tuesday’s operation, ODOT Motor Carrier staff and Sheriff’s Deputies met movers at a rental property near Lake Oswego and checked drivers and equipment for possible violations:

  • Was the mover properly certified with the state to offer moving services?
  • Was the mover's vehicle and driver properly registered with the state?
  • Was the vehicle in safe working condition?

Moving is a regulated industry in Oregon. Any company or person offering household goods moving services must be certified by ODOT. Certified movers are trained to follow industry standards for loading, moving and unloading property and are required to charge approved, reasonable rates. They must carry liability and property damage insurance, and their vehicles must meet federal safety standards.

Consumers who hire an unlicensed mover may have little recourse for loss or damage to their property; they may be charged higher than normal fees; and they may be at higher risk for property or identity theft. The best way consumers can protect themselves during the moving process is to hire a certified moving company.

A list of certified companies is available online at http://egov.oregon.gov/ODOT/MCT/MOVING.shtml.

 

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