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When planning a move, whether across town or across the state, you’re trusting a moving company with not just your belongings—but also your peace of mind. Unfortunately, in an industry that sees thousands of transactions daily, common moving scams are still far too prevalent. One of the most frequent and misleading practices involves moving deposits.
Do Moving Companies Charge a Deposit?
It’s a question many customers ask: Do moving companies charge a deposit? The short answer? They shouldn’t.
“Any decent moving company won’t charge a deposit,” says Austin Ducello, a member of the sales team at Bailey’s Moving and Storage. “You shouldn’t move with a company that charges you a deposit. That’s a major red flag.”
Most reputable moving companies offer a detailed estimate based on either an in-home or virtual walkthrough. From there, the price is confirmed, and payment is made on the day of the move—not before. If a mover asks for money upfront, especially before any service has been provided, it’s likely you’re dealing with a scam.
Why Deposits Are a Red Flag
Legitimate moving companies understand that trust is earned, not bought. Requiring a moving deposit often signals that a company may not have the resources or intent to fulfill your move properly. Worse, some scam companies will take the deposit and disappear entirely, or show up with surprise charges and shady tactics.
A reputable moving company charges you based on the actual time and services required for your local move. No tricks. No hidden fees. No prepayments. They’ll provide you with a clear, upfront estimate and let you know exactly what to expect. That’s the kind of transparency and service every customer deserves.
What Real Movers Do
- Provide a written estimate after an in-person or virtual assessment
- Charge only after the move is completed
- Offer clear rates based on time, labor, and any additional services
- Explain all costs upfront—no surprises, no ambiguity
When you're working with professionals like Bailey’s Moving and Storage, you can trust that the only thing you’ll be paying for is the service you receive—and only once it’s completed.
Other Red Flags to Watch Out For
In addition to moving deposit scams, here are a few other common moving scams to watch for:
- No physical address listed for the company
- Estimates given only over the phone, with no walkthrough
- Cash-only payment requirements
- Generic company names or lack of branding on trucks and uniforms
- Last-minute changes to the price or contract
- Holding belongings hostage for additional payment
Move With Confidence
If you want a professional moving experience that’s free of gimmicks, contact Bailey’s Moving and Storage. We offer honest, transparent pricing, experienced crews, and no hidden charges—just reliable service from start to finish.
Reach out today and discover how easy moving can be when you choose a name you can trust.
