Secure Payment Advice

How to pay safely when buying or selling

Payment Methods Compared

Bank Transfer

RECOMMENDED

The safest method for larger purchases. Both parties have a clear record of the transaction.

PROS

  • + Clear paper trail
  • + Immediate confirmation
  • + No cash handling risk

CONS

  • - May take time to clear
  • - Verify at your bank first

Cash

USE CAUTION

Acceptable for lower-value transactions but requires extra precautions.

PROS

  • + Immediate payment
  • + No bank delays
  • + Universally accepted

CONS

  • - Risk of counterfeit notes
  • - Safety concerns
  • - No paper trail

Cheques / Banker's Drafts

HIGH RISK

Cheques and even banker's drafts can be forged. We strongly advise against accepting these.

PROS

  • + Paper record exists

CONS

  • - Can be cancelled/forged
  • - Takes days to clear
  • - Common scam method

Payment Tips for Buyers

  • 1

    Never pay before viewing

    Don't send any money, deposits, or fees until you've seen the vehicle in person and verified it exists.

  • 2

    Check V5C name matches seller

    Only pay the person named on the V5C registration document. If names don't match, ask why.

  • 3

    Pay at your bank if possible

    Make the transfer in the branch so staff can verify it's processed correctly. Wait for confirmation.

  • 4

    Get a receipt

    Always get a signed receipt showing the amount paid, date, vehicle details, and both parties' signatures.

Payment Tips for Sellers

  • 1

    Wait for funds to clear

    Never release the vehicle until payment has fully cleared into your account. Bank transfers typically clear quickly but confirm with your bank.

  • 2

    Verify cash at a bank

    If accepting cash, meet at a bank where you can deposit it immediately and have it verified for counterfeits.

  • 3

    Never accept cheques

    Cheques can bounce after funds appear in your account. Even banker's drafts can be forged. Stick to bank transfers.

  • 4

    Beware of overpayment scams

    If a buyer "accidentally" pays too much and asks you to refund the difference, it's almost certainly a scam.

The Golden Rule

Never release the vehicle until you have the money. As a buyer, never pay until you have the vehicle and documents.

Mobeo Never...

  • Provides escrow services
  • Asks for payment for delivery
  • Guarantees transactions
  • Sends emails asking for payment

Any email claiming to be from "Mobeo Buyer Protection" is fraudulent.