My family and I lost everything we own and didn't cram into our car on July 3, 2010 when American Choice Van Lines warehouse burned to the ground. We were informed of the disaster on July 19 after many attempts to contact the company through email and phone. (One phone call was answered and the employee said they were having difficulty getting back to customers because their system was down - no mention of the fire that brought their system down!)
The scoundrel owner Vladimir Somov and his pet Gordon then proceeded to lead us on into thinking that a fire investigation was all that was needed before we would receive our minimal refund of $0.60/lb as promised in their contract. When we asked about a refund of the $1600 we already paid them they reassured us that we would get a refund. Over a year later, even after contacting the Better Business Bureau and the Santa Clara District attorney, we have never received a dime. The fire report indicated that Vladimir, on the day of the fire, told fire officials he didn't think he had insurance to cover his contract obligations. Indeed he admitted this on the phone to my wife in September of that year. He told the BBB and the DA that we would get our money when the insurance company finished their investigation. He had no insurance.
My advice: While I'm sure Vladimir learned a lot from this experience, in my book he is a liar and a slimy businessman. i wouldn't trust him with your stuff if I were you.
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