The North Hollywood branch of Starving Students moving company recently “helped” my wife and I move from our home in one side of the Valley to the other. I chose the company because I knew the brand, respected the business model (they started small and still reflect a community spirit) and, as most people agree, their prices were reasonable.
Nonetheless, things took a turn for the worse when we arrived at our new home. Furniture, including lamps, a dresser and a brand new crib purchased just months ago for the arrival of our newborn son and other items were significantly damaged beyond repair in the move. We were in shock, needless to say, when we saw what had happened to our things, but nothing could have prepared us for the reaction we got from the so-called “supervisors.”
“Be glad you got insurance,” he told us, smugly, without one hint of regret or apology or accountability. With my wife and two children nearby, I tried to confront him about what had happened and his next response was even more shocking: “Everyone makes mistakes, even God. Look at your wife, for example,” he said.
This was by far the most sexist and irresponsible individual I’ve ever come across and he deserves to have his “moving credentials” stripped for life because he has put an otherwise fair and decent business at risk. It is true: “accidents happen,” and mistakes are made. However, this man is clearly not someone who should be leading a crew of “experts” who have been put in charge of handling someone’s personal belongings. In fact, we were told by this “supervisor’s” crewmembers that this individual has a history of abusing customers and that they would like to see him leave the company for good.
I urge anyone contemplating a move to avoid Starving Students, at least the North Hollywood office, at all costs. Our insurance claim is pending and likely it will be approved. We will be able to replace our damaged items. We are fortunate in that respect. But the larger issue here is about respect.
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