"They're unlicensed, they have no license to move," said ICC Officer Scott Grimm after pulling over a moving company truck."We're just trying to make some extra cash," they explained.
The I-Team called Apartment Specialist Movers and left a message but no one replied. The company was also cited for improper vehicle identification number, for not having the registered ID on the side of the truck. The ICC recently busted several other moving companies that did not have a state license and provided the I-Team with photos of the sting. State investigators hired known unlicensed movers to a fake job at a Willowbrook storage facility. Officers said all three companies were cited for being unlicensed.
Consumers should always look for an ICC number on vehicles check the agency's website to verify the license is active. ICC police said when you use licensed movers, the state can track them if you have a complaint about being overcharged, or if you have a lost, stolen or damaged items. The Better Business Bureau added you should keep an inventory of your belongings. Take photos of the contents before packing.The ICC also cited some licensed movers that it said were not in compliance. One was cited for a suspended license, due to a lapse in insurance that the ICC said is not yet on file. The other, for allegedly charging a slightly higher hourly rate that the ICC said is not yet approved by the state.
Over 40% of all business inquiries on BBB.ORG for moving companies occur between May and August. With the amount of moving activity during summer, the potential of being a victim of a moving scam also increasesWatch out for warning signs. When reviewing a company's website, if there is no address or information about a mover's registration or insurance, it is a sign that it may not possess the appropriate policies to protect a consumer's belongings.