How to verify packers and movers before you pay an advance
Short answer
Before you pay any advance, look up the mover's GST number on the GST portal and search their legal name on e-Jagriti for consumer cases. At loading, insist on a goods receipt and keep the original: the Carriage by Road Act requires the carrier to issue one.
Which checks can I run myself?
| Check | Where | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| GST registration | GST portal, search taxpayer (no login needed) | Legal name, trade name, date of registration, status, and whether returns are filed |
| Consumer cases | e-Jagriti | Cases filed in district and state consumer commissions and the NCDRC |
| IBA list | Indian Banks’ Association, recommended transport operators | Whether the mover is on the list, and the “valid till” date of its recommendation |
| Complaints help | National Consumer Helpline, 1915 | Help with a complaint before going to a consumer commission |
Compare the legal name on the GST record with the name on the quote and the company website. A different name is not always a problem, but ask why. On the IBA list, check the recommendation date: entries can lapse.
What does the law say about the lorry receipt?
The Carriage by Road Act, 2007 covers anyone in the business of carrying goods by road for hire, including booking agents and brokers. It requires them to hold a certificate of registration (section 3). At loading the carrier must issue a goods receipt in triplicate and give you the original (section 9). You, as the consignor, sign a goods forwarding note that declares the value of your goods (section 8).
What if my goods arrive damaged?
- Note the damage on the delivery receipt before you sign it, and take photos.
- Send the carrier written notice of the loss or damage. Section 16 of the Act bars a claim unless written notice reaches the carrier within 180 days of booking.
- If the mover does not resolve it, call the National Consumer Helpline on 1915 or message 8800001915 on WhatsApp.
- If that fails, you can file a case with the consumer commission online through e-Jagriti.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a mover's GST number is real?
Enter the GSTIN on the GST portal's search taxpayer page. You do not need to log in. It shows the legal name, trade name, date of registration, status and return filing.
What should the lorry receipt contain, and who keeps it?
The Carriage by Road Act says the carrier issues the goods receipt in triplicate and gives the original to you. It is evidence of the number of packages and the particulars of the goods, so check them before you sign.
How long do I have to complain about damaged goods?
Section 16 of the Carriage by Road Act says no claim can be brought unless written notice of the loss or damage reaches the carrier within 180 days of booking. Send it in writing as soon as you find the damage.
What does IBA approved mean?
The Indian Banks' Association publishes a list of recommended transport operators, each with a code and a "valid till" date. Check the mover's name and code on the list and make sure the date has not passed.
Can I file a consumer complaint against a mover online?
Yes. Start with the National Consumer Helpline (1915). If the complaint is not resolved, you can approach a consumer commission, and cases can be filed and tracked online on e-Jagriti.