PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE ALASKA MOVERS ASSOCIATION

Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in moving scams affecting Alaska families. Rogue movers and unlicensed operators often advertise low prices, collect large deposits, and then demand significantly more money or hold household goods hostage.

We are receiving an alarming number of calls from consumers who are in very distressing situations involving rogue moving companies, unlicensed operators, and/or moving brokers. In several cases, customers have reported paying large deposits, having their household goods loaded, and later being faced with unexpected charges, unclear company accountability, or difficulty determining who is actually in possession of their belongings.

Before you hire a mover, it is important to understand who you are doing business with.

Household Goods Carrier: A company that physically transports your belongings using its own operating authority and assumes responsibility for your shipment. Household goods carriers are subject to federal consumer protection regulations, including 49 CFR Part 375, which establishes requirements for estimates, inventories, valuation options, dispute resolution, and consumer rights.
Broker: A company that sells your move to another company. Brokers do not transport your belongings and may never physically handle your shipment.
Freight Forwarder: A company that arranges transportation and may consolidate shipments using other carriers to perform all or part of the move.
Consumers generally have greater transparency and protections when working directly with a properly licensed household goods carrier.

RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR

• The company requests a large deposit upfront or insists on payment by cash, wire transfer, Zelle, Venmo, or gift cards.
• The estimate seems too good to be true. Scammers often use unrealistically low prices to secure the booking and dramatically increase charges later.
• The company cannot clearly explain whether it is a household goods carrier, broker, or freight forwarder.
• The company does not perform a detailed survey of your household goods before providing an estimate.
• The movers arrive in a rented truck, an unmarked vehicle, or without company uniforms.
• You are not provided a written estimate, inventory, or copies of signed paperwork.
• The company has no physical location in Alaska or cannot tell you where your belongings will be stored or transferred.
• The company demands additional payment before delivering your household goods.

• Ask for the company's USDOT number and verify it on FMCSA's SAFER website.
• Confirm whether the company is a household goods carrier, broker, or freight forwarder.
• Review the company's complaint history with the Better Business Bureau.
• Verify that the company has a physical place of business and established operations.
• Read reviews from multiple sources, not just testimonials on the company's website.
• Obtain everything in writing, including estimates, valuation options, and terms and conditions.
• Be wary of unusually low estimates and high-pressure sales tactics​