What a legitimate moving deposit looks like
4 min read · updated 2026-07-26
A modest deposit against a signed written estimate, paid by card, is normal. A large deposit demanded before a written estimate exists, or payable only by cash, wire or a payment app, is the pattern worth walking away from.
Deposits are ordinary in this industry and asking for one is not a warning sign. The shape of the request is what carries the information.
What is normal
- A modest percentage of the estimated cost, against a written estimate you already have.
- Paid by credit card, which preserves a route to dispute the charge.
- Documented on the estimate or the booking confirmation, with the amount and the terms of refund stated.
What is worth pausing on
- A deposit requested before any written estimate exists.
- Cash, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a peer-to-peer payment app as the only accepted method. These are chosen because they cannot be reversed.
- A large share of the total demanded up front, particularly weeks before the move date.
- Pressure to decide immediately, or a price that expires within hours.
Who is holding it matters
If the company is a broker, your deposit is with a company that will not be performing your move. Brokers are required to hold a $75,000 surety bond, and that bond is what a deposit claim goes against if the broker fails to meet its obligations. If the company is a carrier, the deposit sits with the same firm that will load the truck.
Find licensed movers for your move
See which companies hold active federal authority to move you and what moves like yours usually cost, then pick who quotes you.
Already have a quote? Check whether it's a normal price.
Common questions
Is it normal for movers to ask for a deposit?
Yes. A modest deposit against a written estimate is standard. What is unusual is a large deposit requested before a written estimate exists, or one payable only by cash, wire or a payment app.
Should I pay a moving deposit in cash?
A card is safer. Cash, wire transfers and peer-to-peer payment apps cannot be reversed, which is precisely why they are sometimes the only method offered.
Can I get a moving deposit back?
It depends on the terms you agreed, which is why they should be in writing before you pay. If the company is a broker, its $75,000 surety bond exists partly so customers can recover deposits when the broker fails to meet its obligations.