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BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston informs consumers about scams regarding a local shipping company.
Shopping online for life’s important purchases like homes and cars has become commonplace amongst many consumers. However, in the age of buying items online, it is important to remain cautious and research the shipping companies and third parties delivering your product to ensure you are not getting scammed.
Unfortunately, consumers allege that when they contact a seller on Facebook Marketplace about a vehicle, they are then contacted by Albion Logistics for payment and delivery. Consumers report that Albion Logistics states they must pay upfront before the vehicle is delivered. The consumer will then have a 5-day window to request the return of the vehicle at no cost to them and the return of all monies paid.
On October 17, 2023, BBB requested background and operational information from the business. As of November 15, 2023, the business has failed to respond to BBB’s requests. As a result, BBB may not have current information about this business and recommends consumers use caution when doing business with Albion Logistics.
BBB cannot locate licensing with the US Department of Transportation for Albion Logistics. On November 15, 2023, BBB spoke with Ms. Winsome P., a registered SC Notary Public, who states she has not notarized any documents for Albion Logistics and claims they are using her signature and seal on Escrow Agreement(s).
On November 17, 2023, BBB spoke with the SC Department of Insurance because Raymond F.’s signature is being used on Escrow Agreement(s) as the Director of Insurance. BBB was informed that Raymond F. is not the current Director of Insurance and has not signed any Escrow Agreement(s).
It is important to exercise caution when buying from online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and ensure that a deal does not seem too good to be true. One of the largest scams targeting Facebook Marketplace is the use of shipping or escrow services, which can be avoided by buying directly from the seller.
Using your research skills before committing to having an item shipped by a shipping company will help ensure you find a dependable company that will ship efficiently and safely. BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston has a few tips to follow when searching for a reliable shipping company online:
Better Business Bureau. Visit www.BBB.org for a listing of accredited shipping services. Read BBB Business Reviews and Customer Reviews from previous customers. Make sure the business does not have any unanswered or unresolved complaints.
Ask for recommendations. Contact friends, family members, and neighbors for recommendations of trustworthy shipping companies in your area.
Buy directly from the seller. Depending on your product, it may be more practical and safe to buy directly from the seller instead of using a shipping company. Adding a third party may make you more susceptible to scams and not receiving the product you paid for.
Compare pricing. Get at least three estimates and compare pricing and what’s included in their shipping services. Some companies may offer better rates, have more convenient options, or offer insurance. If something is not included, you may pay an extra fee for additional services requested.
Find valid reviews. Reviews are a great way to learn about firsthand experiences that other customers had with a shipping company, but it is important to check that they are legitimate. Checking the timestamp of reviews, noticing identical phrasing, and inspecting the user’s profile can help you identify whether a review is legitimate. Fake reviews may be planted to trick consumers.
Include all the details in the agreement. If you are in direct contact with the shipper, be sure to get all the finalized details in a written contract, including:
- Payments. The buyer or seller is responsible for paying for shipping/escrow service. If the seller pays the shipping, it may not need to be added to the transaction. If the buyer pays the shipping, they may be responsible for the shipping cost even if they reject the merchandise.
- Pricing. Establish pricing expectations for the service. You may be able to insure your shipment for an additional fee. If possible, pay with a credit card. This will help ensure that if something doesn’t go as planned, you have a recourse for a refund.
- Time. What is the timeline for getting your item shipped to you, and what are the policies in place if it takes a different amount of time?
- Refund Policy. When is a refund given? Cancellation by either party within a specific time frame? Are the products in a different condition than when they were initially purchased? Find out and detail the refund policy in the contract.
Article By: Claudia S, Communications Intern