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Federal Way-based moving company fined for violating consumer protection rules

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FEDERAL WAY, Wash. — The owner of the Federal Way-based company Best Moving and Delivery LLC is facing hefty fines for violating consumer protection rules and regulations.

The Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) ordered owner Ivan Ratko to pay a $7,000 fine for 204 rule violations related to providing customers estimates and inventories.

Residential moving companies are legally required to provide customers with a signed estimate prior to moving that ensures mutual agreement on the terms of the move.

The UTC also issued Ratko a suspended $5,000 penalty, on the condition that a follow-up investigation in six months shows that the company has corrected the violations and is complying with all rules and regulations.

Failure to comply with the commission’s order will result in the suspended penalty becoming immediately due and payable.

The UTC is the state’s watchdog agency in charge of enforcing consumer protecting and safety regulations, ensuring that movers charge appropriate rates, carry proper insurance, and operate safely maintained vehicles. The UTC monitors over 200 residential moving companies operating in the state, but does not regulate interstate moving companies.

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