PHOENIX (KVOA) – Attorney General Kris Mayes and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) released a public service announcement warning Arizonans about moving scams.
The PSA aims to educate consumers on spotting and avoiding scams, such as “hostage load” situations, where movers increase prices after loading belongings and refuse to deliver without extra payment.
Arizona’s Hostage Load Law protects consumers by prohibiting movers from demanding payment beyond the “total estimated price” in the contract.
Other scams include movers not showing up, unauthorized charges, extra fees, and stolen items.
Mayes and BBB advise individuals to thoroughly research moving companies, check federal registrations for interstate moves and obtaining written estimates. They also recommend avoiding cash payments, ensuring proper insurance and moving valuable items personally.
For those who experience a “hostage” situation, immediate help can be sought from local law enforcement.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety also can be contacted through email or by calling 602-223-2212.
Consumers can file complaints with the Attorney General’s Office or report scams through BBB’s Scam Tracker.