Safest way to sell on Ebay?

going2die_rich

I've got a brand new laptop to sell and thought I'd do it on Ebay.

Since I am hoping to sell if for a few hundred, want to do it safely.

I'll obviously use an expensive postage option to ensure it gets there, but need to ensure I get my money without risking being scammed and me being left out of pocket.

Whats the best way to ensure I get my money (other than cash in hand from collection)? Bank transfer before posting?

POSSETTE

i think someone spending that much on ebay would prefer to use paypal, and as you have to offer it i think its going to end up like that unfortunately!..unless they are local and you can offer delivery /set up within so many miles of home ..

jasmineswhiskers

You'll be open to all sorts of scams which ebay won't care about...however try to sell a lipstick for a fiver... (sorry to rant).

kevinyork

A few tips.....not exhaustive

Describe it absolutely accurately. Make sure you spell out its a private sale so people dont think they can return it if they dont like the colour etc.

Set your seller preferences very tightly to exclude those with non paying bidder strikes, minus feedback, rule infringements and those outside of the UK.

Price up your delivery method beforehand and state in your listing what this will be and point out a signature will be required. When sending it package it like you would fine china and ensure it is covered by the carrier's insurance in case they decide to play football with the package en route.

I would recommend not offering collection as an option in the listing. If you do and they pay by Paypal you could be open to an item not received claim after collection which you will not be able to defend. If someone approaches you before the auction end to ask if they can collect then you could tell them (by email not ebay messaging) that it could be collected but only for cash. You are not allowed to disuade against Paypal so be careful how you word such a response. Possibly ask for a landline number so you can call them to discuss the options available. If they are serious they should provide one.

If you are new to selling be aware that Paypal may hold your payment in the account until the buyer leaves feedback or a certain period has passed so you may not get your hands on the funds immediately.

Im sure others will be along with more tips...

catmiaow

Make sure not to sell it abroad! And set your preferences to this.

Also write down all serial numbers from the laptop, as people have been known to buy them and replace with faulty parts for a refund.

Take really good clear pictures.

Maybe try classfied ads first though