Secure Payment Advice
How to pay safely when buying or selling
Payment Methods Compared
Bank Transfer
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
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
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
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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
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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.
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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.