According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, since 2002 there has been a 400 percent annual increase in the number of complaints being filed with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). The FMC is the authority over all international moves that take place. Because of the rise in international shipping fraud, it is important for people to take precautionary steps to help avoid becoming a victim.

“Fraud is a real concern, there is no doubt,” explains M. Bliss, of USA-Europe Shipping (www.USAEuropeshipping.com). “But if you take steps to research the company and watch for red flags that signal a company may be fraudulent, then your chances of a successful move greatly increase.”

Some of the red-flag fraud warnings to watch for include:
• Prices that seem too good to be true. If the prices seem suspiciously low, do some more research regarding that company.
• Lack of proper FMC licensing and bonding. All international shipping companies are required by law to be licensed and bonded by the FMC. You can visit the FMC website to verify that a company is in compliance.
• Customer support that is hard to reach, has difficulty answering your questions, or has an address and/or phone number that cannot be verified.
• Companies demanding cash in advance for the moving service.

To choose a reputable international shipping company, you should also research the company’s reputation, and see how long they have been in business.

USA-Europe Shipping is an FMC licensed and bonded shipping company that specializes in moving large items, such as household goods, boats, vehicles, trucks, machinery, and more. Shipping ports in the USA include Los Angeles, Houston, New York, Miami, Baltimore and others. Port destinations include Germany, Sweden, France, Belgium, Spain, UK, Italy, Russia and many other destinations in Europe.

“We believe in excellent customer service and support,” adds M. Bliss. “We have multiple ways that people can reach us. And, best of all, they can verify our credentials with the FMC.”

About USA-Europe International Shipping Company:

USA-Europe Shipping is an international shipping company based in the USA. It provides transportation services for export cargo to destinations around the world. The company has over 10 years’ experience at shipping all sorts of cargo, including cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, heavy equipment, machinery, travel trailers, and household goods and furniture. The company is fully licensed and bonded according to the Federal Maritime Commission regulations. To learn more about USA-Europe Shipping, visit their Web site at http://www.USAEuropeshipping.com