The Commission receives a number of complaints. Some frequent problems encountered are:

-  Late shipments

- The moving company cannot be reached

- The moving company is demanding additional charges such as storage charges, incurred through no fault of  the consumer.

- The moving company claims the original estimate as to weight or measure was inaccurate, and demands additional charges.

- The shipment cannot be located, and no one seems to have any idea where it is.

- Goods are damaged and the consumer paid for insurance, but the moving company did not purchase any insurance on behalf of the consumer.

How do I protect myself and find a reputable mover to move my goods overseas?

We strongly urge all individuals undertaking an international move to hire a moving company that is FMC licensed and bonded. It is possible to locate a list of such companies here. We urge individuals to be wary of using online search services as many rogue movers use these services to lure unsuspecting individuals. If you have questions regarding a company you may call FMC’s Office of Consumer Affairs & Dispute Resolution Services at 202-523-5807.

It is also important to receive several quotes from different companies who have performed an onsite inspection of your goods. Do not rely on a company’s telephone quotations as these are often inaccurate. For additional information please visit www.protectyourmove.gov. Although that site provides advice for interstate moves, rather than international, much of its advice is practical advice that could be applied to international moves as well.

What is a rogue mover?

Despite the high number of reputable moving companies, there are some that work to defraud the public. These dishonest companies generally promise good service for a low rate. However, these companies often charge 2-3 times the promised amount and hold the consumer’s goods hostage for more money. In some cases, these companies take shipments with no intent to deliver the goods so consumers are left to find their shipment and pay another moving company additional money to ship their goods.

What are signs that I may be dealing with a rogue mover?

There are several red flags associated with rogue movers. For example, any company that does not offer or agree to an onsite inspection of your goods and provides phone estimates can be a sign of trouble to come as these companies offer rates that are too good to be true. Another common sign is that the company refuses credit cards and demands a large cash deposit before the move. Many of these companies also lack a local address and do not have licensing information. For more information on how to spot a rogue mover, please visit www.protectyourmove.gov

Why does my mover need to be FMC licensed and bonded?

Federal law (i.e., the Shipping Act of 1984) requires Ocean Transportation Intermediaries to be licensed and bonded. This provides protection for consumers. In the event that there is a transportation dispute with the company that cannot be resolved, the consumer may submit a claim against that company’s bond. In cases where consumers hire unlicensed/ unbonded entities it is much more difficult to seek recovery.

My unlicensed Mover gave me a great rate. Why should I pay more for a licensed mover?

In many situations rogue movers will offer a lower rate and other moving related “perks” such as free insurance to entice consumers into using their services. However, in most cases, after the goods are picked up, such rogue movers may demand a rate that is 2-3 times greater than the initial quote and adds many hidden unexplained charges. The consumer is usually told that unless the extra money is paid the goods will be abandoned. The extra payments do not always guarantee receipt of the goods and the consumer must locate his goods and begin the process again with another mover.

The Company’s website states that it is FMC licensed. How can I verify this?

Rogue movers often claim to be FMC licensed when they are not and provide false licensing numbers. The only way to guarantee that your mover is licensed is to confirm that fact with the FMC. The Commission lists licensed ocean transportation intermediaries at its web site, or you may contact the FMC’s Bureau of Certification and Licensing (202-523-5843) or the Office of Consumer Affairs & Dispute Resolution Services (202-523-5807).

My moving company states that all of its agents are FMC licensed. Am I protected?

No. Any company that holds itself out as an international moving company should be licensed by the FMC if it offers international ocean transportation of your goods. In many instances rogue movers have used legitimate companies as intermediaries and failed to pay those companies for services. This leaves the consumer in a position where he must make a double payment, that is, pay the legitimate company in order to receive his goods.

My company states that it is an agent for an FMC licensed company. Am I protected?

Federal law permits companies to act as sales agents for a licensed company. To protect yourself, however, the agent should provide you with a bill of lading or other information identifying which company is taking responsibility for shipment and delivery of your household goods. For your protection, you should ensure that any contract you sign is with the licensed entity and not the agent.

I just gave a deposit to a company that is not licensed. What can I do?

In many situations the best thing to do is to cancel the shipment, cut your losses, and hire a licensed company. While you may lose the deposit you save more time, money, and energy in the long run.

An unlicensed company just picked up my goods and they will not return my calls. What can I do?

Please call the Office of Consumer Affairs & Dispute Resolution Services immediately at 202-523-5807, or email to complaints@fmc.gov. Someone will assist you in attempting to locate your goods and ensure delivery.