Concrete Delivery Scams: Don’t Get Caught
In the world of construction, concrete is a vital ingredient, and ensuring its quality and reliability is crucial for any project. However, with the rise of online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, scammers have found new avenues to exploit unsuspecting contractors and homeowners. One prevalent scam that has been circulating involves fraudulent concrete deliveries, leaving victims with both financial and legal headaches. Here’s how it works and some tips on how to avoid falling victim to it.
Understanding the Scam:
The scam typically begins with an enticing advertisement offering concrete at significantly discounted rates. For instance, while the average price of concrete in the Charlotte area ranges from $165 to $185 per yard, scammers might advertise prices as low as $110 to $125 per yard. Tempted by the apparent savings, contractors or homeowners place orders with the scammer, who then contacts a reputable concrete company to fulfill the order.
The reputable company delivers the concrete as requested, unaware of any fraudulent activity. However, the scammer collects payment from the customer—often in cash or through untraceable payment apps—before disappearing into thin air. Meanwhile, the reputable company finds itself at the mercy of a chargeback, as the scammer used stolen credit card information to pay for the delivery. This leaves the customer with concrete they effectively paid for but cannot rightfully claim ownership of, leading to potential legal disputes and financial losses.
For more information, here are some articles from the news and social media about these scams:
Concrete Scam Reported Across Alabama
Scammed for 15k via Facebook "Concrete Company"
Spotting the Scam:
Beware of Unrealistic Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember the old adage: "cheap in the short term is expensive in the long term." Be cautious of unusually low prices, as they could signal a scam.
Research the Delivery Company: Before making any commitments, research the delivery company mentioned in the advertisement. Check for an online presence, including a website, Google reviews, and active social media accounts. Legitimate companies will have identifiable trucks with logos and a physical location.
Verify Directly: Rather than relying solely on the contact information provided by the scammer, independently verify the details with the delivery company. Use the contact information listed on their official website to confirm the order and delivery arrangements.
Avoid Untraceable Payments: Be wary of any requests to pay through cash apps or other untraceable methods. Legitimate businesses typically accept traditional forms of payment, such as credit cards, checks, or electronic bank transfers. Cash apps are not designed for business transactions and offer little to no recourse in case of fraudulent activity.
Question Unusual Payment Demands: Be cautious if the scammer demands unusual payment terms, such as requiring a large down payment or payment for each truck that arrives at the job site. Such practices are uncommon in legitimate business transactions and should raise red flags.
Conclusion:
While the allure of discounted prices may be tempting, it's essential to exercise caution when dealing with concrete deliveries from unfamiliar sources, especially online marketplaces. By remaining vigilant and following these tips, contractors, and homeowners can protect themselves from falling victim to concrete delivery scams. Remember, a little diligence upfront can save a lot of headaches and expenses down the line. If you have any questions, we are always happy to help, give us a call at 980-281-3131.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and stay safe.
