Long Distance Moving: When and How to Pay

If you’re planning a long distance move, you’ve probably started comparing moving companies. Maybe you’ve even gotten a few quotes. But once the numbers are in front of you, one big question tends to pop up: How does payment actually work?

Do you need to pay a deposit? When is the full amount due? What happens if something goes wrong with your card?

It’s normal to have these questions. Payment policies in the moving industry can vary a lot. Some companies aren’t always upfront about the details.

At National Van Lines, we have helped thousands of families move, and know the common questions and concerns that they have. In this guide, we’ll break down how most moving companies handle payments, and what to watch out for. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to make a confident decision about your move, no matter who you choose.

What Most Moving Companies Expect

Payment processes in the moving industry aren’t exactly standardized. Every company has its own rules, but here’s what’s common:

• Deposits up front: Many movers ask for a deposit when you book. It’s often a percentage of the total estimate— sometimes 30-50% percent, sometimes more.
• Full payment before delivery: In most cases, your balance is due before the truck arrives— the crew won’t start unloading until you pay it.
• Limited payment methods: Some companies only accept certain forms of payment, like cashier’s checks. In some cases, if the customer prefers, moving companies can arrange to accept cash. You could even be asked to pay through an app like PayPal or Venmo, but this isn’t as common.

PRO-TIP: If your moving company is insisting on wire transfers or cash only, that is a red flag! 

These expectations aren’t necessarily bad, but they do require clarity. If a mover isn’t explaining the process in writing, or if you’re being asked to pay in a way that feels rushed or unusual, take a pause and ask questions.

Payment Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you’re still comparing moving companies, it helps to know what to avoid. Here are some common red flags (we suggest taking a screenshot of this list and saving it to your phone for quick reference):

• Large non-refundable deposits: A small deposit may be reasonable, but if you’re asked to pay a large amount before a single box is packed, be cautious.
• Cash or app-only payments: Reputable companies typically accept a range of secure payment options. If you’re told cash or Zelle are the only options, ask why. Remember, don’t send a payment that you’re not absolutely comfortable making!
• No contract or breakdown: If you don’t get a written version of your quote, you’re at risk of experiencing hidden fees on moving day
• Pressure to pay quickly: Scammers often create urgency to push you into paying without thinking it through. Don’t let anyone force you to pay before you’re ready and fully informed on what’s going to happen with your move.

You deserve a company that’s clear and consistent about how and when you’ll pay.

What Quality Looks Like

At National Van Lines, we believe paying for your move should be just as stress-free as the move itself. Here’s how we do it:

• No deposit is required to book: That’s right. You can reserve your move without putting any money down. This is not standard in the industry, but we believe it should be.
• Payment happens after pickup: Once your belongings are loaded onto the truck, you’ll receive instructions to pay securely online before delivery.
• Online payment portal: You’ll go to payments.nationalvanlines.com, enter your Bill of Lading number and email, and complete your payment.
• Flexible methods: We accept major credit cards and debit cards through our portal. Cashier’s checks or money orders are also accepted if needed, and will be accepted by the driver in-person.
• No unloading without payment confirmation: Just a heads up— our drivers are required to confirm payment before unloading. This helps keep everything on track.

PRO-TIP: Personal checks are not accepted by us.

Tips to Avoid Payment Delays

Even if your moving company has a clear process, large payments can still hit a few snags, especially when using a debit or credit card. Let’s imagine for a moment that you choose National Van Lines as your trusted partner for moving day. Here are some simple but powerful steps you can take to ensure everything goes smoothly the day of:

• Call your bank before moving day: Let them know you’ll be making a large payment, and be sure to let them know the specific date you’re anticipating to make the payment. This can prevent fraud flags or declined charges.
• Double-check your limits: Debit cards often have daily or weekly spending limits. We suggest calling your bank ahead of your move to see if they can temporarily increase your limits.
• Keep your bill of lading (BOL) number handy: This acts as your invoice for your move.  In the case of National Van Lines, you can pay your BOL through our online portal. No matter who you choose for your move, we highly recommend saving this number somewhere secure like the notes app on your smartphone for quick and easy access.
• Confirm the payment was received: Your receipt will be emailed to you, and you’ll need to show it to the driver at delivery. Finding a printer will likely be the last thing on your mind on the day of your mover, so make sure that you’ve got your email access ready to go on your smartphone, too.

By taking these small but important steps ahead of time, you’ll be able to save yourself a lot of stress on moving day.

The Bottom Line: Knowledge Beats Surprises

No one likes surprises when money is involved, especially during a move. That’s why it’s important to understand how payment works before you sign a contract or hand over a credit card.

The truth is, every company is different when it comes to paying for a move. What matters most is transparency. When you know what’s expected and what’s normal, it’s easier to spot the companies that don’t have your best interests at heart.

At National Van Lines, we’ve built our process to be clear, secure, and customer-friendly. If you have questions, we’ll walk you through them. No pressure, no confusion… just straight answers and real support.

Confused on how exactly the final price tag is determined for your move? You’re not alone in asking. Read this blog to learn about the variables and factors that affect how much you pay for a long distance move.