The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has fined Tampa, Fla.-based Moving Van Lines, Inc., $281,000 for violating multiple federal regulations including holding consumers’ property hostage and requiring moving fees in excess of the original binding contractual agreement.
An investigation of consumer complaints against the moving company found violations of 28 counts of failing to relinquish possession of a household goods shipment (hostage load), and one count of collecting fees more than the original binding estimate.
“Consumers should not have to fear the loss of their property at the hands of fraudulent household goods movers,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Companies that violate federal regulations and take advantage of consumers will be held accountable and they will face serious legal and financial consequences.”
