Most legitimate long distance movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Here's what's normal, what's excessive, and what crossed the line into scam territory.
For a standard long distance move, a normal deposit is 10–25% of your total estimated price. For a $3,000 move, that's $300–$750. The deposit secures your truck and move date. It's standard practice and not a red flag on its own.
The classic moving scam: low initial estimate → large deposit → price jumps significantly on moving day → your stuff is held hostage on the truck until you pay the inflated amount. Always get a binding estimate and use a licensed carrier.
We require a standard booking deposit to hold your move date. The deposit is applied to your total cost, is fully refundable with adequate notice, and we accept all major credit cards. The remaining balance is due at delivery — not before your belongings are unloaded.
Never pay the full amount upfront. Never pay cash. And never pay anything before you have a binding estimate in writing.
Get a binding quote from AEY Moving — we'll walk you through our payment structure before you commit to anything.
