Urgent Investigation: New Jersey Moving Company Accused of Fraud

UPDATE: New reports confirm a troubling pattern of alleged fraud involving Noble Moving and Storage, a New Jersey-based moving company. Authorities are investigating claims from multiple customers across the country who say they were pressured into paying thousands more than their initial estimates, sparking urgent consumer alerts.

Just this summer, 7 On Your Side initiated a consumer investigation after police in Fairfield, New Jersey, reached out to reporter Nina Pineda for assistance. Following the airing of the initial warning, an influx of complaints poured in from disgruntled customers who alleged that they were lured in by lowball quotes only to face exorbitant charges on moving day.

“When they showed up, it went to $21,000. I think it was straight-up extortion,” said Melissa, a victim of the alleged scheme. This echoes numerous similar accounts from customers who have reported that their local searches for movers led them to Noble Moving and Storage, where the final bills far exceeded initial quotes.

According to an anonymous source, Farah Al-Ibrahim, who previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud in 2019, is allegedly at the center of these new complaints. “She’s kind of the ringleader. She manages everything,” the source revealed, voicing serious concerns over the company’s business practices.

“Are you saying that they’re told to sell it this way, with a lowball price and then switch it up on the day of the move?” Pineda questioned. “Correct,” the source replied.

The Fairfield Police Department is taking these allegations seriously. “The pattern is what makes it become criminal and that allows us to get involved,” said Stacy Chiarolanza from the police department. Authorities are now investigating Noble Moving for reportedly raising prices significantly on moving day.

Despite the allegations, Noble’s owner, Joe Hannouch, who is also Al-Ibrahim’s husband, defended the price increases, claiming customers underestimated the volume of their belongings. However, customers adamantly disagree. Nate Wheatley claimed, “They got me for about $8,000,” while another victim, Andrea Elliot, reported a shocking final bill of $18,000.

The Department of Transportation has confirmed it is aware of the ongoing investigation into Noble Moving and Storage. The agency investigates cases of fraud that involve providing misleading quotes to attract clients. Recent filings indicate that Noble Moving operates under the corporate name Moving System Holdings Inc, with Al-Ibrahim listed as president.

As these allegations unfold, it’s clear that consumers need to be vigilant. If you receive an estimate over the phone or online without an in-home visit, proceed with caution. Be wary of companies demanding payment before loading or showing up with unmarked rental trucks.

What’s Next? As authorities continue their investigation, consumers are urged to share their stories with 7 On Your Side. If you’ve experienced similar issues, report your concerns via the contact information provided by the news team.

Stay informed and protect yourself from potential scams. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.