Press Release

PUC Reminds Consumers to Use Certified Movers When Relocating

Published on 4/7/2014

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – Spring and summer are prime moving times for those relocating to new homes and students moving home from college – and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds consumers to avoid uncertified moving companies. The PUC urges those relocating to verify that their chosen moving company holds a certificate (license) from the PUC before utilizing it.

The PUC regulates household movers that operate within the state. These movers are required to have a license issued by the PUC and must have the proper insurance on file. As required by law, these movers must also charge fees according to the rates on file with the PUC. Before moving day, consumers should obtain a written estimate from the moving company.

PUC certificated household movers are required by regulation to place their certificate number in all forms of advertisements, including telephone books or online ads, such as those found on sites like Craigslist. The PUC number is a number that will range from six to eight digits in length and will begin with an “A.” If an ad does not contain a PUC number, consumers may be hiring an uncertificated and uninsured carrier. Certificated movers will also have the company name, city, state and PA PUC number displayed on both sides of the vehicle.

Consumers may visit the PUC website to view a complete list of carriers holding PUC operating authority or to submit a moving company complaint electronically. They can also call the Commission’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement at 717-783-5010 to verify any information on a carrier.

The Commission recommends that before hiring a moving company, consumers should:

• Ensure the company is licensed by the PUC. All movers operating within Pennsylvania must display their PUC number in advertisements (such as phone books and online ads).
• Ensure that you receive an Information for Shippers form prior to signing any agreements. This form provides the following information:

• A written estimate – based on applicable tariff charges (hourly rate if distance is 40 miles or less) or on a weight and mileage basis (if distance is over 40 miles);
• If the actual bill exceeds the estimate by more than 10 percent, customer must initially pay the estimated charges plus 10 percent of the estimate or $25 (whichever is greater) in order to receive shipment. Mover is required to deliver shipment upon payment. Customer then has up to 15 days after delivery to pay the remainder of the balance (if a customer is concerned about the rate, he/she can file an informal complaint with the PUC, and the enforcement staff would investigate to determine if the correct tariff rate was utilized);
• Insurance information – loss or damages automatic protection is insured up to 60 cents per pound per article (if additional protection is desired, consumer must purchase it through the moving company or private insurer); and
• Information for consumers to lodge complaints about moving companies; including the PUC complaint number, which is 1-800-692-7380 and PUC website.

The PUC recommends that consumers obtain more than one estimate since tariff charges do vary among companies. Additionally, the carrier must complete a detailed inventory which lists all items to be moved and their condition, although this requirement may be waived by the consumer if the move is 40 miles or less.

At the conclusion of your move, consumers are urged to check delivered items for missing or damaged goods – prior to signing the delivery receipt. Note any problems (service or damages) on the delivery sheet and do not sign until all items have been moved. Keep all paperwork given to you by the moving company.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722