St Louis Woman S Moving Nightmare
St. Louis Moving Nightmare: A Cautionary Tale for Your Next Relocation
Planning a move can be stressful, and finding a reliable moving company is paramount to a smooth transition. However, as one St. Louis woman recently discovered, what promises to be an easy move can quickly turn into a nightmare, highlighting the critical importance of due diligence and clear contractual agreements. Her experience serves as a stark warning to anyone entrusting their possessions to a professional mover.The Day Her Life Drove Away
In February 2024, Kenyatta Mosley, a St. Louis resident, hired Super Cheap Movers LLC to transport her family's belongings from a storage unit to their new home. Having been homeless for three months, the move was a critical step towards stability. Time was of the essence, as February 29th was the last day she could occupy the storage unit without incurring additional fees. Mosley chose Super Cheap Movers LLC because they were available on short notice and seemed willing to accommodate her urgent timeline.A Shifting Price and Payment Dispute
The initial contract, reportedly from CEO Treflin Duncan (also known by the alias "Markell Robinson"), stipulated two workers at $150 per hour for two hours, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The total agreed-upon cost was $481, with a $100 deposit paid and a remaining balance of $381. However, the situation quickly escalated upon the movers' arrival. Mosley states the movers arrived at 4:23 p.m., but she soon received a revised receipt claiming an arrival time of 3:54 p.m. and extending the service end time to 6:54 p.m. This adjustment inflated her remaining balance to $540. Despite the discrepancy, Mosley paid the higher amount via Cash App. Yet, the CEO allegedly refused to deliver her belongings to her home, demanding full payment upfront. When Mosley questioned the altered terms, he reportedly became frustrated and drove away with the truck containing all her family's possessions. The stark contrast in the agreed terms and the on-site changes is critical:| Detail | Original Agreement (Mosley's Claim) | Revised On-Site (Company's Claim) |
|---|---|---|
| Service Window | 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. (2 hours) | 3:54 p.m. - 6:54 p.m. (2 hours 54 mins) |
| Hourly Rate | $150/hour | $150/hour |
| Total Initial Cost | $481 | N/A (final balance dispute) |
| Remaining Balance | $381 (after $100 deposit) | $540 (after $100 deposit) |
Irreplaceable Losses and Legal Troubles
The items on the truck included essential furniture, cherished mementos, and irreplaceable family heirlooms. Among the most painful losses were her husband's parents' death certificates and childhood photographs, items that cannot be recovered. Mosley described the incident as a theft, stating, "They stole, they robbed, they didn’t care, they’re heartless." Super Cheap Movers LLC, when contacted, claimed Mosley had not paid her bill and suggested that if she had, the retention of goods would be considered theft. They stated the business is registered with Google and Facebook. However, court records reveal that CEO Treflin Duncan has a history of civil and criminal cases, including an active warrant for failure to appear in court for charges of stealing and fraudulent use of a credit/debit device.Protecting Your Move: Lessons Learned
Kenyatta Mosley's experience underscores several crucial points for anyone planning a move:Thoroughly Vet Your Moving Company
Before committing, research potential movers extensively. Check online reviews on multiple platforms (Google, Yelp, BBB), look for any legal complaints or past incidents, and verify their licensing and insurance. A company registered on social media alone is not enough.Demand a Detailed, Written Contract
Never rely on verbal agreements. Insist on a comprehensive written contract that clearly outlines:- Service dates and times.
- Exact hourly rates and any additional fees (e.g., fuel surcharges, packing materials).
- Total estimated cost.
- Payment schedule and accepted payment methods.
- Insurance coverage for your belongings.
- Cancellation policies.
Understand Payment Terms
Be cautious of movers who demand full payment upfront, especially for long-distance moves. Reputable companies often require a deposit but typically collect the remaining balance upon delivery. Clarify when and how payments are expected, and confirm receipt for every transaction.What to Do If a Dispute Arises on Moving Day
If a mover changes terms or demands more money on site, try to remain calm. Document everything: take photos or videos, note exact times, and save all communications. If the company refuses to deliver your belongings after a payment dispute you believe is unfair, contact local law enforcement immediately. This could be considered theft or extortion.FAQs About Hiring Movers
- How can I verify a moving company's legitimacy?
Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), read reviews on trusted sites, and confirm they are licensed and insured with your state's Department of Transportation or relevant regulatory body. - What essential details should my moving contract include?
The contract should specify dates, times, hourly rates or flat fees, breakdown of services, insurance details, payment terms, and clauses for delays or disputes. Get everything in writing. - What are red flags to watch out for when hiring a mover?
Be wary of unusually low quotes, demands for large cash deposits, lack of a physical address, generic company names, or companies pressuring you to sign without reviewing the contract. - What legal recourse do I have if a moving company takes my belongings?
Immediately contact the police to report theft. You can also file a complaint with consumer protection agencies, the BBB, and consider legal action in small claims court or through an attorney.
St Louis Woman S Moving Nightmare
