AIR Sounds the Alarm

The Problem is Bigger than Just Storage

Illinois started to sound the alarms on October 11, 2022, in regard to the storage crisis on the horizon. On January 1st, 2023, AIR members began declining four major lenders along with one forwarder and only after thousands of cases were declined, conversations began with the majority of the parties involved. While there have been some resolutions to the issues addressed, others have refused to begin the conversation even after being providing factual data regarding the crisis on hand. The conversations have finally brought some transparency to all in the space, but some of the facts discovered are truly concerning.

Facts that AIR has discovered:

– Forwarders are collecting storage from some clients that is not passing through to the agent network

– Some lenders are paying spiffs/ bonuses that are not passed on.

– Repossession fees charged by the forwarders are well over $1000 and agents who actually recovered the vehicle are only being paid $275.

– Some lenders kept vehicles stored on agents’ lots for extended periods because auctions do not hold the same insurance coverage recovery agencies do.

– Invoices that were meant to be sent to the lender but were accidently sent to the agent show that declined items, such as flatbed fees, were still being billed to the lender.

AIR is seeking a transparent relationship with the forwarding network. This is by no means is an attack on the forwarders, as AIR recognizes they are a vital part of our industry. However, the agent network has been left in the dark for way too long and it’s time to shine light on some of the discrepancies in billing.

It is time to knock down the wall that has been built between agents and the lending network.

David E Johns Jr.

Vice-President, Alliance Of Illinois Repossessors

About The Alliance of Illinois Repossessors

The Alliance of Illinois Repossessors is a gathering of Repossession companies that will unite for the progression of the repossession industry within our state. AIR is composed of licensed members operating repossession agencies with the State of Illinois. The purpose of this Association is to strengthen understanding between licensed Repossessors, law enforcement, financial institutions, regulatory agencies, and the consumer.