Got a quote from a long distance mover and surprised to see that they require a deposit? Don't worry—it's perfectly normal. But it's smart to be cautious. This post will explain why moving companies ask for deposit payments and why movers prefer cash at pick-up and delivery.
Several Moving Carriers Ask For A Deposit
It is normal for a moving company to ask for a deposit on long distance moves to ensure you're a serious customer. Here is why:
Commit: Several moving companies do not consider a job "booked" unless you sign the contract and pay the deposit. Otherwise, the mover might question your seriousness about your upcoming move.
Expenses: Large national moving companies might not ask for a deposit because they have a lot of capital. However, smaller long distance movers require a deposit to cover upfront move expenses like fuel, materials, and labor.
Large Brands: Major national movers might not ask for a deposit upfront, but their services are more expensive. Consumers moving on a budget might only come across movers who ask for a deposit to secure their date and truck.
Refund Policy: A long distance moving company asking for a deposit is normal. However, it's important to ensure that your refund and cancelation policy is reasonable if you need to cancel services.
Credit cards: This is generally safe if you pay your movers a deposit on your credit card. Credit card companies protect consumers from scams and can help you regain your funds.
Can You Get Your Deposit Back From Movers?
Yes you can get deposit back from movers as long as services have not been rendered. According to the FMCSA and other sources, long distance movers cannot keep a deposit as long as you cancel services within 3 days of signing the bill of lading.
Read your contract; if the contract suggests a non-refundable deposit upon cancellation, do not agree. This is a red flag, here is why:
A deposit with a no-refund policy opens the doors for any potential bait-and-switch moving scam.
With a non-refundable deposit, how do you know if the long distance movers will even arrive?
Dishonest moving company owners often have a no-refund policy on deposits, and their bad online reviews will explain why.
Long Distance Movers Asking For Cash At Pick-up or Delivery?
Moving companies prefer cash after loading or unloading to avoid credit card disputes after services are rendered. Consumers file credit card transactions with their movers, so moving companies often ask for cash or certified funds to avoid this.
If a moving company insists on cash payment and you don't have the funds, here is what to know:
CC Auth Form: Long distance moving companies that prefer cash can still accept credit cards. Negotiate with your mover and ask if you can sign a credit card authorization form. A credit card authorization form protects the moving company from chargebacks once services have been rendered.
Hostage Move: If you can't pay the requested amount in cash, ask your movers to unload your belongings. If your long distance moving company refuses to unload your stuff, your items will be held hostage. Contact your local police department and the FMCSA to get your things back.
Alternative Payments: Moving companies that prefer cash can still accept Zelle, Venmo, money orders, and certified checks. With Venmo, you can put your credit card details as a payment method and Venmo your movers instead.
Cash And Deposit Payments To Movers Are Normal, But Do Research.
A long distance moving company requiring a deposit or asking for cash does not always mean a scam. Each moving company has its payment policies. If you're uncomfortable with your mover's payment options, choose another mover.
It's important to read your contract and research to avoid payment and billing disputes with your long distance movers at the last minute. Deposit and cash payments to a long distance moving company are generally okay as long as you have everything in writing.
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