NJ consumer officials cite 29 unlicensed moving companies

TRENTON, N.J. (AP/WTXF) -- New Jersey officials have cited 29 moving companies for operating without a license.

The firms received violation notices and were each assessed a $2,500 civil penalty as part of an undercover sting called "Operation Mother's Attic," which took place over a four-day period in April 2018. The results were made public Monday.

Investigators from the state's Consumer Protection office posed as people planning to move from an upscale neighborhood in Montville. They found various unlicensed companies advertising online and hired them for their "move."

The unlicensed movers were met in Montville by the investigators, while state police conducted safety inspections on the moving trucks. Federal officials checked out-of-state movers to ensure they were registered to engage in interstate operations.

Each company cited in the sting can seek an administrative hearing to contest the allegations.

The moving companies issued notices of violations and fined are:

Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file a complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs online or by calling 973-504-6200.