Moving, Packing, Storage Information

Settling Storage Disputes

You should first request a response from the storage company. Depending on the complaint, always have the bill, the contract or inventory sheet in hand when contacting them.

If a response is not forth coming or you do not get a satisfactory response you will need to contact the storage company’s main office if different from your local office.

Most storage companies will participate in a dispute settlement program which offers neutral arbitration in the event a dispute arises. The better business bureau (BBB) in your local area can facilitate the arbitration process. Contact them for advise on how to proceed. However, the hope is that you never need to use this service.

Taking Steps To Protect Yourself

The first time you meet the storage operator, discuss their procedure for resolving disputes.

Storage companies should always have their fee schedule published for your review.

Before signing, examine the contract and all fine print carefully so you won't be surprised with any of the conditions such as extra charges for labor, an overtime truck fee, or automatic rising rates. Have the storage operator fully explain anything that is confusing to you.

Be sure to have adequate insurance because it is the best option to help in recouping damage to belongings while in storage.

Create an inventory list with the condition of each item noted on it and go over the list with the storage operator. Make sure you both agree. The storage company will keep one copy. Keep your copy in a secure location for handy reference.

Determine how many payments you need to miss before any action is taken.

Types Of Disputes

1. Dispute over Charges

Read the contract and fine print again.
Very often there are overly-inflated, hidden fees in the contract's small print for time or mileage restrictions on the free truck or for the labor needed to pack and move your articles into the storage space. You will be required to pay these.
If the rate was originally estimated and this is specified in the contract, the storage operator can charge no more than 10% above the estimated amount. You have a legitimate complaint if you are being charged more.
Ask for your bill to be reviewed.

2. Loss or Damage to your Property While In Storage

Use your inventory list as reference for your complaint.
You must prove the damage happened while the item was in storage.
If the warehouse is not temperature or climate controlled and your items were damaged due to climate, the storage facility is not responsible and your insurance will not cover this.

3. Dispute over Non-Payment of Fees

If you forget to make a payment or cannot afford to pay, actions will be taken as laid out in the contract. The contract should state how many payments you need to miss before any action is taken.
The storage company will try to recoup their losses by selling your goods at public auction.
If you are unable to settle the matter in arbitration you will receive a "Notice of Sale" giving you information on the time, date and location of the auction.
This is not available in all states so check with your local Better Business Bureau for details.
If the storage operator does not recoup all his losses he can sue you for the remainder. In this situation the storage operator will often win damages if he can show that your account was in arrears and no effort was made by you to pay.
If you dispute the validity of the lien, contact your local Better Business Bureau for advice and help.

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