Feb. 9, 2009
Docket Number: TV-081657

OLYMPIA, Wash. – State regulators today went to court to shut down an Edmonds-based residential moving company that never obtained a permit to legally operate within the state of Washington.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) today filed an enforcement petition against Thomas Shanks, dba Action Moving Company, Inc., in King County Superior Court. The UTC seeks a permanent injunction that would prevent the company from moving a residential customers’ property within the borders of the state.

In 2000, the UTC issued a cease and desist order along with a $1,500 penalty against Action Moving for operating as an unlicensed carrier. The company never responded to the UTC’s actions, however the movers have continued to advertise and do business as a moving company without obtaining a state permit.

The UTC’s court action was prompted by a consumer complaint against Action Moving. The customer alleged that in the course of the move, the company overcharged, caused property damage and refused to pay a damage claim.

The UTC is the state’s watchdog agency in charge of enforcing consumer protection and safety regulations for more than 200 residential moving companies operating within the state. Movers must charge proper rates, carry insurance and keep their vehicles safely maintained. The commission does not regulate interstate moving companies.