How much of a deposit should a moving company ask for?

No federal rule sets a deposit amount. The FTC and FMCSA both list a demand for cash or a big deposit before the move as a warning sign. New York's consumer protection agency says reputable movers generally don't ask for large advances, and Massachusetts says many movers don't take a deposit at all and are paid on delivery.

If you do pay a deposit, keep it small and pay it by credit card. Never pay a deposit in cash or by wire transfer.

Before you pay, get these answers in writing: Is the deposit refundable? What is the cancellation deadline? Is the money going to the moving company or to a broker? A deposit paid to a broker is not a payment to the mover who will carry your things. Ask whether it is refunded if no mover is ever assigned. The answer varies by company, so get it in writing.

Source: FTC, Avoid Scams When You Hire a Moving Company; FMCSA, Red Flags; NY Department of State, Consumer Alert on Moving; Mass.gov, Protect Your Money and Belongings · Checked October 2026