The “overpay for transport fees counterfeit cheque scam” is a type of payment fraud often used in online marketplaces, vehicle sales, rentals, moving jobs, pet sales, or freelance gigs.
Here’s how it usually works:
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The scammer agrees to buy something from you (or “hire” you).
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They send a cheque/check for more than the agreed amount.
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They claim the extra money is for:
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a transport company
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shipping agent
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mover
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customs fees
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courier
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“their associate”
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They ask you to forward the excess money to that third party.
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The cheque initially appears to clear, so you think the funds are real.
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Days or weeks later, the bank discovers the cheque is counterfeit or fraudulent.
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The bank removes the money from your account — but the money you forwarded is gone permanently.
Example:
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You sell a car for £5,000.
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Buyer sends a cheque for £7,500.
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They say:
“Please send £2,500 to the transport company.” -
You transfer £2,500.
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The cheque later bounces.
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You lose £2,500.
Key warning signs:
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Buyer is “overseas” or unavailable by phone
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Overpayment “by mistake”
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Pressure to act quickly
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Requests to forward money elsewhere
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Payment by cheque when bank transfer would be simpler
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Fake shipping companies or movers
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Poor grammar or scripted messages
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They refuse in-person collection
Important:
A cheque “showing in your account” does not mean it has fully cleared. Banks can reverse fraudulent cheque deposits after preliminary availability.
What to do if this happens:
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Stop communication
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Do not forward money
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Contact your bank immediately
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Report it to Action Fraud if you are in the UK
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Keep all emails, texts, and payment records
There has been an attempt to use this by parties on our website “Marketplace”, so a good reason to use the forum sales tools first.