The ODOT stresses the importance of hiring only licensed movers, as required by state law
Moving in Oregon is highly regulated. This is to protect customers and their belongings. Moving can be a very stressful experience, so it’s important to do your research when choosing a moving company.
If you work with unlicensed movers you may be charged a higher rate (all moving fees are regulated by the state), may be at increased risk to property and identity theft, and may have no protection against damage to your items or property.
The State of Oregon regularly conducts stings to catch unlicensed movers
On August 26th, 2014 ODOT set up a sting in Hillsboro, Oregon where four companies with no moving license were all fined.
One of the men driving a moving vehicle was even arrested for driving on a suspended driver’s license. In one of the cases the movers were using a farm truck (which is illegal) that wasn’t not enclosed and would have had no way to protect someone’s belongings.
The ODOT urges customers to choose licensed movers from a list provided on their website. Here’s ODOT’s list of approved licensed movers in Oregon.
Frequent complaints about unlicensed movers
- Being charged significantly more than estimated
- Movers who have not had background checks
- Unsafe moving vehicles
- Damaged items
- Items being held hostage while movers demand payment.
How to protect yourself from unlicensed movers in Oregon
At You Move Me we recommend that you always protect yourself when hiring a mover by:
- Asking to see the Mover’s license and Insurance
- Getting an in-person estimate
- Verifying the company’s history and accreditations.
