Press Release

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has fined a Butler moving company $10,600 for 43 violations that occurred during 15 separate moves for customers from Dec. 3, 2000, to April 10, 2001.

Two PUC enforcement officers performed an audit of Hindman Moving and Storage on April 12 and discovered the violations. The PUC’s Bureau of Transportation and Safety instituted a complaint and suggested a fine of $10,600 for the violations. The company had 20 days to respond to the complaint or the fine would be imposed. The PUC did not receive a response during that time.

Hindman Moving and Storage Company’s violations included:

• Rendering service outside of the territory authorized in the company’s certificate of public convenience 12 times;
• Failure to furnish the shipper with the proper "Information for Shippers" statement prior to the preparation of an order for service on 12 occasions;
• Failure to use and complete the proper form for estimates of charges titled "Estimated Cost of Services" on 15 separate moves;
• Charging an improper rate other than what is specified in the tariff at three different times; and
• Failure to obtain a weight ticket to accompany a shipment.

The company is authorized to provide service in Butler County or within 25 miles north of the City of Butler. A PUC enforcement officer will contact the company for a follow-up audit. If the Hindman Moving and Storage audit reveals continuous violations, the company’s certificate of public convenience may be suspended or revoked.