Don't Be Scammed

The North Carolina Utilities Commission, in the wake of the Hurricane Matthew tragedy, warns consumers to avoid hiring movers who schedule or perform moves of household goods (HHG) without proper authority from the Commission. Commission-certified HHG movers must submit criminal history record checks to the Commission and provide evidence of three kinds of insurance coverage - vehicle, cargo, and general liability insurance.

Personal belongings often include family heirlooms and other items not easily replaced. Hiring a moving company with a certificate from the Utilities Commission assures you the company is insured and reputable. Nick Jeffries, Director of Transportation Utilities Regulation, cautions against hiring a noncertified mover, "If your property is damaged, lost or stolen, you have little or no recourse for compensation."

Certified movers are easy to identify as all vehicles must display the name, address, and assigned certificate number.

Practice good moving habits. Visit the NCUC website for helpful tips and a comprehensive listing of certificated HHG movers in North Carolina at https://ncuc.gov/Industries/transportation/transportation.html. Call the Public Staff Transportation Hotline: 919-733-7766, for help finding a legal, certificated HHG mover for performing an intrastate move of your HHG and to report any suspicious mover activity.

Movers who move household goods between states must comply with federal rules and regulations. Consumers should seek helpful information concerning interstate moves at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move .

NORTH CAROLINA UTILITIES COMMISSION

Related Topics:

• Consumer Advisory