High riskMarketplace Scams

Moving Company Scam

This scam uses a low quote to win your booking, then demands a large deposit or sharply raises the price once your belongings are loaded. Some movers hold your items hostage until you pay sudden extra fees that were never mentioned at the start.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Service deposit scam
Main red flag
A quote that is unusually low, followed by a large upfront deposit or surprise fees once your goods are loaded.
What to do first
Get a written, binding estimate in advance and be wary of any mover demanding a big deposit before the work.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam uses a low quote to win your booking, then demands a large deposit or sharply raises the price once your belongings are loaded. Some movers hold your items hostage until you pay sudden extra fees that were never mentioned at the start.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Your move is booked at our great low rate. Please pay a 50% deposit today to secure the truck, with the balance due in cash on the day before we unload.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A quote much lower than other movers, used to win the booking
  • A large deposit demanded upfront before any work is done
  • A binding written estimate that the company avoids providing
  • Prices that jump suddenly once your belongings are on the truck
  • Demands for cash and a refusal to release goods until extra fees are paid

What to do

  • Get a written, binding estimate and ideally an in-person or video survey
  • Check the company is properly licensed and read independent reviews
  • Be cautious of large upfront deposits before the move takes place
  • Keep an inventory of your belongings and read the contract carefully

If you already clicked or replied

  • If your goods are held, keep records and contact the relevant transport regulator
  • Report demands for surprise fees to your card provider if you paid by card
  • Gather your contract, quotes and messages as evidence
  • Report the company to your national anti-fraud centre and consumer authority

What not to do

  • Do not pay a large deposit before a written, binding estimate
  • Do not rely on a quote given without seeing your belongings
  • Do not pay surprise cash demands without documenting everything first

Similar scams

High risk Rental

Rental Deposit Scam

This scam advertises a desirable rental at a low price and demands a deposit before any viewing, then disappears once you pay.
Medium risk Email

Fake Invoice Email Scam

This scam emails an invoice or receipt for something you did not buy, hoping you call a fake 'support' number or click a link to dispute it.
High risk Marketplace

Fake Escrow Scam

In a high-value marketplace deal, the other party insists on a specific 'escrow' or 'secure payment' website to hold the funds, but the site is fake and simply collects your money or card details.

Frequently asked questions

How much deposit should a genuine mover ask for?
Many reputable movers take little or no large upfront deposit. A demand for a big deposit before any work is a common warning sign worth questioning.
Why was my final price so much higher than the quote?
Some movers give a low quote to win the job, then raise the price once your goods are loaded. A written, binding estimate from a surveyed inventory helps prevent this.
Can a mover legally hold my belongings hostage?
Holding goods to force extra payment is a serious issue. Keep all records and contact your transport regulator or consumer authority, as you may have protections.
How can I check a moving company is legitimate?
Confirm the company is properly licensed, look for independent reviews, and get everything in writing. Be wary of movers who avoid providing a binding estimate.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.