Gravel Monkey / Groundworks Supply LLC

Overview

Multi-state e-commerce fraud operation selling landscaping equipment including plate compactors, mini excavators, and construction tools. The operation ships damaged, defective, or significantly different products than advertised, then charges fraudulent "restocking fees" ranging from 20-50% for items that were never actually returned or were returned due to the seller's misrepresentation.

The operation uses a sophisticated shell company network across 5+ states with Delaware and Wyoming LLCs to obscure true ownership. Investigation revealed shared technical infrastructure, payment processing, and customer service operations between purportedly separate businesses.

Fake customer service personas are employed to delay and frustrate legitimate complaints. The operation has extensive BBB complaint history with an F rating and active Attorney General complaints in multiple states including Arizona, California, and Texas.

Red Flags Identified

Corporate Structure

Investigation revealed a complex network of shell companies designed to obscure ownership and liability:

• Groundworks Supply LLC - Wyoming (registered agent only, no physical presence)
• GravelMonkey Inc - Delaware (paper corporation)
• Equipment Direct Holdings - Florida (shared address with other entities)
• NJ Fulfillment Services - New Jersey (warehouse operations)
• Multiple additional DBAs and trade names across Arizona, California, Texas

If You've Been Victimized

1. Document everything - Save all emails, receipts, photos of products received
2. File a credit card dispute - Contact your bank immediately for chargeback
3. Report to FTC - reportfraud.ftc.gov
4. File AG complaint - In your state AND the state where they operate
5. Report to BBB - Add to their complaint record
6. Contact us - We can help compile evidence for legal action