how to sell expensive items without being scammed

[othercousin]

I have an item that has attracted a number of obvious scam attempts. Where do I get more info on adding required signature on delivery? Must the person who ordered it be the one who signs and accepts package? What about the additional liability coverage, how does that work?

Thank you

[mr_lincoln]

Hi @othercousin 

In response to the title of your Post ... there is really no guarantee to avoid being scammed when selling and shipping on the internet regardless of the item's value ... 

About the only way to avoid being scammed is to use the Local Pickup only setting and require cash at pick up.  

[othercousin]

That's what I've done. However, I see sold items worth several thousand dollars. Surely, they aren't risking losing that much?

Thank for the response though.

[house*of*paws]

Hi @othercousin 

I’m afraid there’s no way to be sure of not being scammed … on eBay or in life.

Signature Confirmation MUST be used with items costing $750 and more.

At the start of the pandemic … carriers were told to sign the SC forms themselves to avoid close contact with customers.  I think some are still doing that.

[I have no idea what the actual rules are about who signs.  It seems to give buyers less protection if carriers sign, since there’s no proof of WHERE package was delivered.  I think anyone at the address is allowed to sign.]

[jame234 · Accepted solution]

@othercousin 

As noted, there is no way to fully eliminate scams when selling online.  On eBay try listing as a Buy It Now with immediate payment required.  That offers some protection against nonpayers.  With signature confirmation, anyone at home can sign for the item.  The seller is responsible that the item arrives to the buyer in as described condition.  Insurance is for the seller.  The buyer has eBay's Money Back Guarantee if he receives a damaged item.  Items requiring signature confirmation per eBay are items $750 and over.  For an item less than that amount, it is a hassle for the buyer who needs to be home or arrange that someone to be present to sign.

[othercousin]

I forgot about that pandemic rule. With this being the holidays, I wouldn't be surprised if that rule still applied or the carriers just do it anyway out of necessity.

[mr_lincoln]

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@othercousin wrote:

That's what I've done. However, I see sold items worth several thousand dollars. Surely, they aren't risking losing that much?

Thank for the response though.

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@othercousin   Yes, some people risk that much but at the end of the day if the item is a high value item that is shipped AND is often scammed then the Seller is at risk.