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Tuesday, May 31, 2011

State Warns Residents to Check Background before Hiring a Moving Company

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) has some words of caution for residents needing to hire a moving company: check the background of the moving company with the state, before it’s too late!

A large number of moving companies falsely advertise that they are “licensed and insured.” Customers who hire these illegal companies typically have little or no recourse if their belongings are damaged, lost or stolen.


Numerous state laws and rules protect consumers of in-state moving companies. The UTC enforces these laws and can assist customers who have a complaint against a moving company. Moving companies are required to include their UTC permit number in their advertising. Look for a valid permit number with a prefix of THG or HG, for example: HG-89222, when scouting for a company.

Check the Credentials of a Moving Company
You can check on the credentials of a residential moving company at www.utc.wa.gov/mover or by calling 1-888-333-WUTC (9882).

The UTC also offers tips in their moving guides located at www.utc.wa.gov/consumers/movers/Pages/default.aspx