Is it normal for a seller to want 50% upfront before even confirming the material is ready?
Short answer: A partial deposit before production, sorting, or preparation of a large order isn't unusual for bigger transactions, but 50% upfront before the seller has even confirmed the material is ready to ship is on the higher, riskier end — it's reasonable to negotiate a smaller upfront amount or tie any deposit to a verifiable milestone instead.
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Browse Listings →Why some upfront payment is normal
For larger orders, especially ones requiring the seller to sort, process, or prepare material specifically for you, some upfront commitment protects the seller from you walking away after they’ve done that work. That’s a legitimate business reason for a deposit.
Why the size and timing matter
A smaller deposit — 10 to 20% — tied to order confirmation is standard. A 50% deposit requested before the seller has even confirmed availability shifts a lot of risk onto you with comparatively little shown in return, and that gap is worth pushing back on.
What to propose instead
Tying a deposit to a specific, verifiable milestone — material sorted and photographed, ready for pickup, in transit — rather than just “before we start,” gives you more assurance that your money is buying progress, not just goodwill.
How ScrapTrade Makes This Easier
Escrow-based payment through ScrapTrade means funds are committed but not released to the seller until your side of the agreed milestone is met, which reduces the risk a large upfront percentage otherwise carries.
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