A couple relocating from Southern California to North Carolina has accused their moving company of doubling the price of their cross-country move mid-process and holding their belongings hostage. John and his wife hired a moving broker for their move from Oceanside, California, signing a contract for just over $16,000, which included full packing services. They paid a $7,000 deposit upfront.
When movers arrived at their home at the end of May, the company informed the couple that their belongings exceeded the initial estimate and raised the total cost to $32,000. Nelson stated he felt compelled to agree, as canceling the move would have meant forfeiting his substantial deposit.
The couple had also informed the movers that they would not reach their new home in North Carolina until June 10. Despite this, the company allegedly attempted to deliver the shipment on June 3. With no one available to receive the items, the moving company then charged them an additional redelivery fee, according to Nelson.
Nelson expressed his belief that the company was holding their possessions for ransom, noting that they had paid $30,000 and their belongings were still undelivered. He also questioned the legitimacy of the June 3 delivery attempt, after reviewing video footage of the truck. "I think they just pulled up an empty truck to stage a charade," Nelson told CBS 8.
The couple has since filed police reports in both Oceanside and their destination city. They have also lodged complaints with multiple agencies, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB has advised consumers to thoroughly vet moving companies and maintain detailed inventories of their belongings before signing contracts. Records indicate that the moving broker involved in this case has received 280 complaints over the past three years.