Joint operation cites and educates seven unauthorized moving companies
June 26, 2025
Media contact: Chris Crabb, chris.c.crabb@odot.oregon.gov, 971-304-9705
SALEM – Selecting a certified moving company can make the difference between a smooth move and one resulting in damage, mishandling, overcharging or even theft.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Commerce and Compliance Division, in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, addressed the issue of unauthorized household goods moving companies at an operation in Clackamas County on June 25. ODOT's Commerce and Compliance Division invited unauthorized companies that advertise moving services to locations in Clackamas County.
Representatives from ODOT, the Clackamas County and Washington County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Beaverton, Oregon City and Wilsonville Police Departments informed the companies about how to become authorized movers in the state. Law enforcement also inspected the trucks. Seven moving companies participated, and citations were issued for several violations (see list at the end of this release).
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“Transportation of household goods in Oregon is a heavily regulated industry that safeguards the public’s personal safety as well as their assets,” explained ODOT Commerce and Compliance Division Investigation and Compliance Manager Leah Cisneros. “Operations like these are designed to enforce regulations, educate moving companies on the correct way to operate in the state and uphold the integrity of reputable moving companies.”
Why moving companies need certification in Oregon
According to state law, any individual or company offering to transport household items must be certified by the Oregon Department of Transportation Commerce and Compliance Division. To get certified, applicants need to prove they are fit, able and willing to provide this service. Staff reviews each applicant's application, highway use tax payment and audit history, bond and insurance filing history, criminal background information and safety records. By enforcing the statute, ODOT aims to eliminate unlicensed and dishonest moving companies that can be dangerous, provide poor service and put customers at risk.
Currently, a moving company operating without a certificate is issued a $1,000 civil penalty. Per Senate Bill 839, that penalty will rise to $3,000 starting Jan. 1, 2026, and will expand to also include offering, advertising or transporting without a certificate.
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The collaboration between ODOT and local law enforcement aims to:
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Protect consumers by preventing fraudulent and unsafe practices that some unauthorized movers might use, like charging too much, damaging items or stealing belongings.
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Ensure fair competition by supporting licensed and trustworthy moving companies by reducing competition from unlicensed movers.
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Educate the public about the importance of hiring licensed moving companies for a secure and smooth move.
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Actively enforce regulations to identify and penalize unauthorized movers who operate outside the law.
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Educate unauthorized movers on how to operate in compliance with Oregon’s laws and rules.
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Tips for choosing a moving company
ODOT advises anyone looking to hire a moving company to consider the following:
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Make sure the mover is certified by ODOT. Intrastate movers should have this certification, which involves background checks and adherence to an approved tariff of rates. You can find certified movers on ODOT’s Household Goods Moving website.
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Read reviews and gather information. Be cautious of movers with little information or no physical location.
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Hire movers with vehicles in good working condition. Both the vehicle and driver must be properly registered with the state and meet minimum insurance requirements.
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Complain if needed. Victims of unauthorized movers can report issues to the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Division.
The following moving companies were issued citations and violations yesterday based on Oregon Revised Statutes and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations:
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Axle LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
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Bustami Movers LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
- Oregon Revised Statutes 811.175 – Violation driving while suspended.
- Oregon Revised Statutes 806.010 – Driving uninsured.
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Confidence Moving Labor LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
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Ohana Moving Company LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
- Oregon Revised Statutes 811.175 – Violation driving while suspended.
- Oregon Revised Statutes 806.010 – Driving uninsured.
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Portland Movers Ready
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
- Oregon Revised Statutes 806.012 – Failure to carry proof of liability insurance.
- Oregon Revised Statute 807.010 – Operating vehicle without a license.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation 392.9B(A) - Operating without an active USDOT number.
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RJ’s Moving & Hauling LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
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Supreme Portland Movers LLC
- Oregon Revised Statutes 825.100 – Operation without proper authority.
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*Please email for high-res photos from the event.
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