Who to Call to Report a Moving Scam

If you believe you’ve been the victim of a moving scam, knowing where to report it is important. The agency you should contact depends on whether your move was within New Jersey or crossed state lines.

Moving Within New Jersey

If your move began and ended within New Jersey, it is considered an intrastate move. Public movers operating within New Jersey are required to be licensed by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

If you believe a mover has violated New Jersey regulations, operated without the proper license, or engaged in fraudulent or improper business practices, contact:

New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
Public Movers and Warehousemen / Regulated Business Section
Consumer Service Center: 973-504-6200

Consumers can also file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs. When filing a complaint, keep copies of your estimate, bill of lading or moving contract, receipts, emails, text messages, photographs, and any other documentation related to your move.

Moving Across State Lines

If your move crossed state lines, it is considered an interstate move and falls under federal regulations administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Complaints involving an interstate moving company or moving broker can be filed through FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database.

FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database
1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238)

The hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

When filing a complaint, provide as much information as possible, including the moving company's name and contact information, the origin and destination of the move, and the company's U.S. DOT and MC numbers, if available.

What If a Mover Is Holding Your Belongings?

If a mover is refusing to deliver your belongings or demanding additional money before releasing them, report the situation promptly to the appropriate state or federal agency.

For interstate moves, FMCSA specifically accepts complaints involving household goods shipments being held hostage and other potential violations of federal moving regulations.

If you believe a crime has occurred or you are concerned about your immediate safety, contact local law enforcement. In an emergency, call 911.

Before You Hire a Mover

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to check a moving company's credentials before signing a contract or allowing your belongings to be loaded onto a truck.

For moves within New Jersey, verify that the mover holds a current license issued by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

For interstate moves, verify the mover's federal registration and operating authority through FMCSA.

Be cautious of movers that demand large upfront payments, provide unusually low estimates, refuse to provide required paperwork, or will not provide their license or U.S. DOT information.

Taking a few minutes to verify a mover before you hire them can help prevent a moving nightmare later.

NJWMA encourages consumers to choose a licensed, reputable moving company and understand their rights before moving day.

Looking for a licensed moving company? Search HERE!

The New Jersey Warehouse and Movers Association (NJWMA) encourages New Jersey consumers to hire licensed and insured professional movers and to discuss specialty, high-value and mechanically complex items during the estimating and visual survey process.