New Jersey has recently ramped up its enforcement against unlicensed moving companies in an effort to protect consumers from illegitimate and potentially harmful services. The state's Attorney General's office, supported by the Division of Consumer Affairs, conducted an undercover investigation that unveiled a significant number of movers operating without proper licensing. This resulted in substantial civil penalties for 23 companies caught in the act.

The operations of unlicensed movers can pose several risks including fraud, loss or damage of personal property, and exorbitant fees that were not previously disclosed. New Jersey law requires moving companies to obtain a license from the Division of Consumer Affairs before conducting business. This process includes background checks for criminal history of the company's personnel, proof of a legitimate business address, and the provision of a valid insurance certificate. These measures are designed to protect consumers from deceptive practices and ensure that movers meet specific safety and ethical standards.

The initiative not only highlights the rigorous steps that New Jersey takes to regulate industries within the state but also underscores the importance of consumer protection in the moving industry—an area where individuals and families can be particularly vulnerable. Consumers seeking to engage moving services are urged to verify the licensing status of any company through the Division of Consumer Affairs' database.

This enforcement action aligns with New Jersey's broader commitment to oversight in business practices, ensuring that companies operate transparently and ethically. Moreover, it reflects the state's proactive approach to consumer rights and highlights the stringent policies that regulate business operations in New Jersey.