How to avoid scams when buying or selling a truck
Updated October 2026
Truck scams follow a few patterns. Knowing them protects your money.
Buyer red flags
A price far below market. A seller who can't meet or show the truck in person. Pressure to pay a deposit by wire, gift card, crypto or a payment app before you've seen it. An 'escrow service' or shipping company the seller insists on that you've never heard of. A story about being deployed, moving overseas or a divorce that explains why they can't meet.
Seller red flags
A buyer who offers more than your price and asks you to send back the difference. Checks or cashier's checks that arrive for the wrong amount. Requests to ship the truck before the payment fully clears.
Protect yourself
See the truck in person or send a mechanic you trust. Verify the title and VIN match. Use a payment method you can verify, like meeting at the buyer's bank. Don't release a title or keys until funds have cleared. If something feels wrong, walk away and report the listing to us.
