Is an online seller who insists on using their own shipping company a scammer?
Frequently yes. Insisting on a specific shipping company is a classic element of online purchase fraud, particularly for high-value items.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
In online purchase scams for items such as vehicles, heavy machinery, electronics, or pets, the seller insists on using their own 'trusted' shipping or transport company. This company is controlled by the scammer. The buyer pays the purchase price and then receives additional invoices from the shipping company for insurance, customs, or storage. Each payment is absorbed by the scammer with no item ever delivered. Real sellers use verifiable, independently chosen carriers. If a seller will not allow you to arrange your own transport or insists their carrier must be used, treat this as a serious red flag and do not pay anything until you have physically seen the item.
Common red flags
- Seller insists on using a specific, previously unknown shipping company
- Additional invoices arrive from the shipping company after the initial payment
- Seller cannot let you view or collect the item in person
- Item is priced significantly below market value
- Shipping company website was registered very recently
What to do now
- Insist on viewing the item in person or arranging your own verified carrier
- Do not pay additional shipping company invoices
- Check the shipping company's registration and reviews independently
- Report the listing to the platform and your consumer protection service
Frequently asked questions
What if the seller shows photos and videos of the item?
Photos and videos are easily faked or stolen from other listings. Physical viewing remains the only reliable verification for high-value items.