Press Release - Wednesday, April 30, 2025
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ICC recommends tips for hiring a household goods mover
Chicago, IL - With the spring moving season approaching, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding residents to research potential moving companies before handing over their belongings.
"A quick call to the ICC can help residents avoid the financial and emotional toll of a move gone wrong," said ICC Chief of Police Ruben Ramirez Jr. "The ICC offers resources to help consumers vet potential movers and feel confident that they're entrusting their belongings to a reputable business."
"Unlicensed movers are far more likely to be uninsured, pushing the burden of damaged goods, an on-the-job injury, or a move-gone-wrong onto the customer. The Illinois Movers' and Warehousemen's Association (IMAWA) has over 200 reliable, licensed movers to help Illinoisians avoid scams or other moving disasters," said IMAWA Executive Director Matt Hart.
"Dealing with a scam can amplify an already stressful situation. No matter where you're moving, bbb.org is a reliable place to check a business' ratings and reviews. Unfortunately, they compete against some movers who don't care about ethics. This puts the burden on consumers to do thorough research to avoid excessive expense and heartache," said Better Business Bureau CEO Steve Bernas.
The ICC's Smart Tips for hiring a mover include:
• Check to see if the moving company is licensed by the ICC to operate in Illinois.
• Do not rely on mobile apps alone to select and schedule your movers.
• Ask the mover to visit your home. If you can, show them the contents of every room, closet, garage, etc. you want moved, and talk about what they can expect at the new home.
• Request a written estimate. A written quote is not binding, but it will give you a reasonable expectation of what you'll be required to pay on moving day.
• Discuss your options for loss and damage protection. Get it in writing.
• Be prepared to pay 110 percent of the written estimate on moving day. If the estimate was too low, the mover cannot hold your goods if you pay the written estimate, plus an additional 10 percent.
• If a mover offers ‘freebies' (cartons, tape, etc.) ask questions up front to avoid surprises later.
• Start your search at least six weeks ahead of your move.
Read the ICC's complete list of recommendations for hiring a household goods mover. Los consejos también están disponibles en español.
Throughout the year, ICC Police Officers conduct patrols and issue administrative citations for violations ranging from operating without a household goods license to driving on a suspended license. ICC police will be increasing patrols across the state in the coming weeks to ensure intrastate movers are in compliance with Illinois' rules and regulations.
Intrastate moving companies in Illinois must be licensed with the ICC. Consumers can visit the ICC website or call 217-782-6448 to see if an intrastate household goods mover is properly licensed or to view any complaints against a company.
Residents moving to another state should confirm that their mover is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Consumers can file a complaint against an intrastate household goods mover here.
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