When you’re planning a move, one of the first questions concerning your budget that pops up is whether you’ll need to hand over cash before moving day. It can feel unsettling to pay before a single box is loaded, and that worry is fair — no one wants to send money to a company they’re not sure they can trust.
So, do moving companies require a deposit? In many cases, yes. Deposits help lock in your date and give the mover some security that you’ll follow through. But how much you’re asked to pay, when it’s due, and whether it’s refundable can look very different depending on the company.
This guide breaks down the basics: when movers usually expect payment, why deposits exist, what’s considered standard, and how to protect yourself from red flags.
When Do You Pay Movers?
One of the biggest questions people have before hiring a moving company is simple: when do you pay movers? The answer depends on the type of service and the mover’s own policies.
Reputable companies will rarely ask you to pay movers upfront in full. Instead, you might see a small booking fee, followed by the remainder after delivery. For local jobs, it’s common to settle the bill once the work is done. Long-distance movers, on the other hand, may ask for a deposit to secure your spot and then collect the rest of the balance when your belongings arrive.
Because moving companies’ payment options can vary, it’s always best to ask for a written breakdown so you know exactly what to expect before moving day.
Why Some Moving Companies Ask for a Deposit
From the mover’s side, asking for a deposit isn’t just about money. It’s about making sure everyone is committed. Here are a few reasons a company might request one:
- Securing your date. Moves are scheduled tightly. A deposit tells the company you’re serious, which helps them reserve trucks and crew members for your job.
- Reducing no-shows. Just as customers worry about unreliable movers, companies worry about last-minute cancellations. A deposit gives them some protection against lost time and income.
- Covering early costs. Movers often spend money up front on fuel, staffing, or planning logistics. Having a deposit helps offset those expenses.
There are also benefits for you. Paying a small deposit means your move is officially on the books, so you don’t have to stress about losing your spot during a busy season.
Of course, deposits should always be reasonable and clearly explained in writing. When handled fairly, they work as a sign of good faith on both sides.
How Much is a Typical Deposit for a Moving Company?
Most reputable movers ask for a modest deposit — usually somewhere between 10% and 25% of the total cost. That’s enough to confirm your booking without putting you on the hook for the entire move.
For example, one mover in Los Angeles recently required about a $360 deposit on a $3,400 move — just over 10%. That’s right in line with what’s considered normal.
“Plenty of movers don’t ask for money ahead of your move. Instead, they collect payment once the job is done… The trade-off is availability. Movers who don’t take deposits sometimes get booked faster since they’re taking more of the risk.”
For local jobs, deposits are often smaller or even waived, since the mover doesn’t have to commit as many resources up front. Long-distance moves, on the other hand, usually require a larger percentage because crews, trucks, and fuel need to be scheduled well in advance.
If you’re ever asked to pay most or all of the balance before moving day, consider it a red flag. High up-front costs can be a sign of a scam. A trustworthy mover will put the deposit terms in writing and collect the rest only after your belongings are delivered.
Are Moving Company Deposits Refundable?
The short answer: yes, moving deposits should be refundable. A reputable mover will spell out the rules around refunds and usually give you a fair window to cancel without losing your money. If you cancel at the very last minute — often within 24 hours of your move — some movers will keep the deposit or charge a fee. That’s acceptable as long as the policy is clear and outlined in the written contract.
Where you need to be careful is with companies that avoid the question or call every deposit “non-refundable” under any circumstances. That kind of vague or one-sided policy is a red flag. Movers who won’t give you straight answers on refunds may not be reliable in other ways, either. In the worst cases, some even hold belongings hostage — here’s what to know if a moving company tries to keep your stuff.
The safest approach is to ask directly, get the answer in writing, and double-check your contract before you pay. A mover that’s upfront about refunds is usually the one you can trust with the rest of your move.
Red Flags for Deposit Scams in the Moving Industry
Most movers who ask for a deposit are legitimate, but scams do happen — and deposits are one of the ways shady companies take advantage of customers. The trick is knowing when a request is reasonable and when it’s a sign to walk away.
Here’s how deposit scams usually work: a mover asks for a large payment up front, sometimes even the full cost of the move. Once they’ve got your money, they may change the terms or refuse to deliver your belongings until you pay more. That’s why spotting the warning signs early is so important.
Red flags include cash-only requests, vague or missing contracts, and policies that say deposits are “non-refundable” with no explanation. A demand for full payment before delivery is another major sign of trouble.
Some scam movers never even show up on moving day. Here’s what to do if your movers don’t show up.
Deposit Red Flags vs. Green Flags
| Red Flags | Green Flags |
| Cash-only deposit requests | Multiple payment options (credit card, debit, check) |
| Full payment is required before delivery | Small and reasonable deposit, balance due at delivery |
| No written contract or vague terms | Clear, written agreement with refund details |
How to Protect Yourself When Paying a Deposit
Paying a deposit feels a lot safer when you put the right safeguards in place. And the best one of those is a written contract. It should clearly outline the deposit amount, when the balance is due, and how refunds work. If those details aren’t in writing, don’t hand over your money.
“Just as customers worry about unreliable movers, companies worry about last-minute cancellations. A deposit gives them some protection against lost time and income.”
It’s also a good idea to choose a credit card when it’s time to pay. Unlike cash or wire transfers, a credit card gives you recourse if the mover fails to deliver on their promises. Before booking, check that the company is licensed and insured through the Department of Transportation or your state’s registry.
Reviews can also tell you a lot. Look at the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and HireAHelper to see how past customers rate the mover. If complaints are consistent, it is better to walk away. Finally, have a simple phrase ready in case you feel pressured. Something like, “I need time to review the contract,” makes it easier to say no in the moment. These small steps go a long way in keeping your deposit safe.
Moving Companies That Don’t Require Deposits
Plenty of movers don’t ask for money ahead of your move. Instead, they collect payment once the job is done and your stuff is delivered. That setup can feel a lot safer if you’re nervous about paying before the move even starts.
The trade-off is availability. Movers who don’t take deposits sometimes get booked faster since they’re taking more of the risk. If you’re moving during peak season or on short notice, it may be harder to lock one in.
If you want this kind of option, your best bet is to compare movers through a trusted platform. On HireAHelper, you can see which companies ask for deposits, which ones don’t, and how past customers rate them. That way, you’re not just guessing — you can choose a mover that fits your comfort level and still know you’re hiring someone reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all movers require deposits?
Not always. Some movers ask for a small deposit to lock in your date, while others don’t charge anything until moving day. Both can be legitimate — what matters is that the policy is clear up front.
Is a deposit different from a booking fee?
It can be. A deposit is usually a percentage of your total cost, while a booking fee is a flat charge. In either case, the money should go toward your final bill. If it doesn’t, or the company can’t explain the difference, that’s worth questioning.
Can I get my deposit back if I cancel at the last minute?
Sometimes. A reputable mover will have a written cancellation policy that spells out if, when, and how you can get your money back. If the policy is vague or the mover avoids the question, take it as a warning sign.
How do I know if my deposit is safe?
The safest deposits come with a contract, a credit card receipt, and a track record of happy customers. Use sites like HireAHelper, the BBB, or Trustpilot to see what other people say before you book. If the payment terms don’t feel right, trust your gut. You can also protect yourself by learning the rules about timing. For example, here’s how long a moving company has to deliver.