Planning a move? One of the first things to ask is when you have to pay and if they need a deposit. Every company is different, but professional movers will tell you exactly what to expect from the start.
What Is the Norm When Paying Movers?
Every moving company has its own payment rules. Some ask for a small deposit to save your date, while others wait until the job is done to charge you. Usually, a deposit is more common for larger jobs or when you are moving during a very busy season.
At Eco Movers, for example, we don’t accept deposits for local jobs and only take payment once the work is over. For long-distance moves, the process is a bit different because the logistics are bigger, so we may require a deposit. In those cases, we typically collect half of the estimated balance before we start unloading the truck, and then you pay the rest after the job is finished.
Commercial moves are different as well. Because these are business-to-business jobs, the payment is based on the specific needs of the client.
So, in short, the best thing to do is ask your mover directly how they expect to be paid.
Is It Normal to Pay for a Move in Full Before it Starts?
As we mentioned, it is normal for some movers to ask for a deposit to hold your date. However, this should only be a percentage of the total. You should not pay movers in full before they do any work, and make sure they give you a receipt or some proof that you paid if you put a deposit.
Don’t pay the full amount until your things are at your new place. If a mover wants more than 50% before they even start, that’s a big red flag. It’s even more of a concern if they ask for cash. This is a sign of a scam. If this happens to you, it’s better to keep looking and get a few more quotes from other moving companies.
Need Help with Your Next Move?
If you have more questions about how moving payments work or if you are ready to book your date, we are happy to chat. You can reach out to our team at any time, fill out our form and get a clear and honest quote for your move. Contact us!
