Safer transactions, built in.
Pluum is built to make peer-to-peer vehicle transactions more transparent and secure. Here's how verification and escrow work — plus practical tips for safe meetups, payments, and document checks.
Verification
Identity verification
Sellers verify their identity so buyers know who they're dealing with. (In progress — coming soon.)
Vehicle verification
Listings are encouraged to include complete specs, photos, and history for a stronger Pluum Score.
Pluum Score
A 0–100 score reflects listing completeness and seller transparency to help you judge trust at a glance.
Escrow
Pluum is designing secure escrow to hold funds safely until both buyer and seller confirm the handover — so payment only releases when the deal is right. Until escrow launches, complete payments offline using your own trusted method and the safety tips below.
Safe meetups
Meet in public
Choose a busy, well-lit, public location for every inspection and test drive — daylight is best.
Bring someone
Bring a friend or family member to the first meeting, especially for higher-value vehicles.
Daylight inspections
Inspect the vehicle in daylight so you can spot dents, rust, and paint mismatches clearly.
Test drive always
Always test drive before buying. Listen for odd noises and check brakes, steering, and acceleration.
Secure payments
Use Pluum's secure payments
When secure payments launch, keep the transaction inside Pluum so your money is protected by escrow.
Never wire or send cash upfront
Don't send money before seeing the vehicle. Be wary of sellers who pressure you to pay before meeting.
Watch for scams
If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Report suspicious listings to Pluum immediately.
Verifying vehicle documents
Verify the VIN
Match the VIN on the dashboard, door frame, and title paperwork. Run a history report when available.
Check the title
Confirm the title is clean and in the seller's name. Watch for salvage, rebuilt, or lien notations.
Service records
Ask for maintenance records. A documented service history is a strong sign the vehicle was cared for.
Quick safety checklist
Pluum will never ask you to pay outside the platform once payments are live, and we won't pressure you to skip an inspection. Report suspicious listings or messages to support.
Questions about a listing or a transaction? Our team is here to help.