The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
@mustangmanbob said:"
I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
This is the only part of your statement I disagree with. When I buy a coin, I factor in all costs, including shipping. So I would pay $100 for a coin whether it was $100 with free shipping, or $90 with $10 shipping. So the cheaper you can ship your items, the better. But I agree with the rest.
@stman said:
I got in a car wreck. The other party asked for my insurance information. I said I was self insured. I tried to tell them that although they don't know me I promise to fix their car.
Maybe I should have said my feed back is great. Heh
I know this was tongue-in-cheek. But all kidding aside it is possible to self-insure your automobiles (at least in some states). Typically it requires a large surety bond or deposit with the DMV or the Dept of Insurance.
If you had Bill Gates' money would you buy insurance as protection against a loss? (Maybe...is he a bad driver?)
Insurance of any kind is, on the whole, a money loser for policy owners and profitable for insurance companies. Otherwise there would be no insurance business. Pretty simple.
If you can't stand the possibility of a loss you buy insurance even though it is a lousy bet.
Lance.
We received notice from the buyer's financial institution that Case ID xxxxxxx has been decided in the buyer's favor. However, because you’re a valued customer, we’re not debiting your PayPal account for the disputed amount.
Here are the case details:
Buyer's name: xxxx
Buyer's email: xxxxxxx
Buyer's transaction ID:xxxxxxxxx
Your transaction ID:xxxxxxx
Transaction date: September 12, 2017
Transaction amount: $749.95 USD
Disputed amount: $749.95 USD
Thank you for your patience during this process. We appreciate your business.
You can find additional information and tips about buying and selling safely at our Business Resource Center. After you log in to your PayPal account, click Tools, and then click Business Resource Center under "Grow your business."
Sincerely,
PayPal
Please do not reply to this email. To get in touch with us, click Help & Contact.
..........................................
And here is the Unique stolen coin from the above fraud. Keep an eye out for it ....
@jwitten said:
I usually ship about 400-500 packages a year. I've been doing this for 8-10 years or so. I usually have a lost package every year or 2. If I save $5 a package not buying insurance, it saves about $2,000 a year. My average package value is $300ish. I can lose a few of those a year and still come out ahead. But taking a $3,000 hit would really hurt, so I insure ones that are that pricey. Pretty easy to explain really.
I usually insure part of the value, for example if the coin is 5000 I would insurance 2k. Any coin under one k I would not insure it. for coins over 2k I use express mail. It used to be cheaper for insurance when you use express mail but that is not the case any more.
" All high dollar items are subject to theft by a dishonest postal employee"
Exactly my point.
ebay bubble packaging with no insurance is practically invisible to the post office employee who steals high ticket items.
What do you mean by "ebay bubble packaging"?
I am leary of using boxes or labels that have the ebay logo - I feel safer with plain Priority Bubble mailers (over the cardboard). You can hardly break into those things unless u are using a razor or knife. The cardboard is thin and tears. I have started taping all seams. I may start 'whiting' out the eBay logo on my postage labels. I don't want them on there. And I don't know why eBay makes you use eBay labels instead of just being able to use regular Paypal labels. I prefer regular PP over eBay process, tho the mechanics are about the same. I trust 'just' Paypal over anything eBay related and don't like them controlling my labeling. For cheaper things, I just like the 4x8 brown bubble mailers. You don't want to get 'too' small because then there is a chance it could get lost. And u have to be careful not to have sticky tape outside up or it could get 'attached' to something else. Packing packages is an art. Not always pretty, but it works.
@derryb said:
What is important here is that those that use USPS clearly understand their options and the consequences of their choices.
Facts are:
-Registered mail (insurance is always included in fee) is more secure as it moves through the delivery system. It requires postal employee signatures at each hand-off. It also requires special packaging.
-Self insurance (no insurance) means person shipping eats any loss, Paypal and Ebay will not protect the person shipping.
-At approx. $700 it s cheaper to ship registered vs. insured regular priority or regular first class.
-Two types of registered: Registered priority and Registered first class for items under 13 ozs. They both move at the same pace but registered first class is cheaper if you qualify for it.
-USPS will pay no more than $15 on a postal claim involving bullion unless it is shipped registered where they cover the market value. There is no clear USPS definition of "bullion."
To insure or not to insure. . .
How do you know if you qualify for First Class over Prio for Registered? What are the requirements.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
@amwldcoin said:
Curious what your response would be if you had a $5000 package stolen by the Post Office! Yes I did and thankfully it was registered and insured! I agree with self insuring lessor priced items....but really... you ship high dollar items and self insure? No offense...to each his own...but that seems pretty dumb to me!
@ErrorsOnCoins said:
LMAO about packages lost in the mail. Do the math. How much have you paid in insurance costs vs how many (value of) packages are lost in the mail.
There is a reason that every insurance guy I know has some really nice toys. Most insurance is NOT worth it IMO.
I wonder if the package was stolen at the post office BECAUSE it was registered and had valuables inside.
Just doesn't happen. It is under lock and key at all times.
Yes he can scam. If he requests a return and claims it’s not right. Then mails back a newspaper weighing about the same as original package. Not worth the risk.
Video tape it and don’t open any returns without video taping. Send insured signature required . Make sure to make contact prior to shipping. All advice above is good advice. And don’t allow return outside the system. They will make you whole on fraud if they indicate ok to ship. Good luck.
You could google the guy, see if he has a good or bad record is a responsible citizen etc.. I haven't done too many transactions over $2K on ebay to strangers. I've done a few high value transactions through their global shipping which is a fraud proof system as long as it gets to their processing hub in KY.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
LOL, good luck with that. Buyers on eBay tend to become pretty antsy when a 3K item shows no movement for a couple of days, whether you are upfront or not.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
@amwldcoin said:
Curious what your response would be if you had a $5000 package stolen by the Post Office! Yes I did and thankfully it was registered and insured! I agree with self insuring lessor priced items....but really... you ship high dollar items and self insure? No offense...to each his own...but that seems pretty dumb to me!
@ErrorsOnCoins said:
LMAO about packages lost in the mail. Do the math. How much have you paid in insurance costs vs how many (value of) packages are lost in the mail.
There is a reason that every insurance guy I know has some really nice toys. Most insurance is NOT worth it IMO.
I wonder if the package was stolen at the post office BECAUSE it was registered and had valuables inside.
Just doesn't happen. It is under lock and key at all times.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
@Kkathyl said:
Yes he can scam. If he requests a return and claims it’s not right. Then mails back a newspaper weighing about the same as original package. Not worth the risk.
Video tape it and don’t open any returns without video taping. Send insured signature required . Make sure to make contact prior to shipping. All advice above is good advice. And don’t allow return outside the system. They will make you whole on fraud if they indicate ok to ship. Good luck.
PP/eBay is supposed to wait until the seller receives the goods back before refunding, no?
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
PP/eBay is supposed to wait until the seller receives the goods back before refunding, no?
Normally the seller makes the refund on a return after receiving the goods. If seller fails to make refund in timely manner, PP/Ebay verify proof of return and then make the refund from seller's funds. In rare cases they will not require a return (counterfeit coin claim).
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
" All high dollar items are subject to theft by a dishonest postal employee"
Exactly my point.
ebay bubble packaging with no insurance is practically invisible to the post office employee who steals high ticket items.
What do you mean by "ebay bubble packaging"?
I am leary of using boxes or labels that have the ebay logo - I feel safer with plain Priority Bubble mailers (over the cardboard). You can hardly break into those things unless u are using a razor or knife. The cardboard is thin and tears. I have started taping all seams. I may start 'whiting' out the eBay logo on my postage labels. I don't want them on there. And I don't know why eBay makes you use eBay labels instead of just being able to use regular Paypal labels. I prefer regular PP over eBay process, tho the mechanics are about the same. I trust 'just' Paypal over anything eBay related and don't like them controlling my labeling. For cheaper things, I just like the 4x8 brown bubble mailers. You don't want to get 'too' small because then there is a chance it could get lost. And u have to be careful not to have sticky tape outside up or it could get 'attached' to something else. Packing packages is an art. Not always pretty, but it works.
@derryb said:
What is important here is that those that use USPS clearly understand their options and the consequences of their choices.
Facts are:
-Registered mail (insurance is always included in fee) is more secure as it moves through the delivery system. It requires postal employee signatures at each hand-off. It also requires special packaging.
-Self insurance (no insurance) means person shipping eats any loss, Paypal and Ebay will not protect the person shipping.
-At approx. $700 it s cheaper to ship registered vs. insured regular priority or regular first class.
-Two types of registered: Registered priority and Registered first class for items under 13 ozs. They both move at the same pace but registered first class is cheaper if you qualify for it.
-USPS will pay no more than $15 on a postal claim involving bullion unless it is shipped registered where they cover the market value. There is no clear USPS definition of "bullion."
To insure or not to insure. . .
How do you know if you qualify for First Class over Prio for Registered? What are the requirements.
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
LOL, good luck with that. Buyers on eBay tend to become pretty antsy when a 3K item shows no movement for a couple of days, whether you are upfront or not.
Insurance on a $3K express package almost doubles your cost over registered.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
PP/eBay is supposed to wait until the seller receives the goods back before refunding, no?
Normally the seller makes the refund on a return after receiving the goods. If seller fails to make refund in timely manner, PP/Ebay verify proof of return and then make the refund from seller's funds. In rare cases they will not require a return (counterfeit coin claim).
If seller claims that item returned is not what was sent, then what?
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
After post office says delivered (to the address) any subsequent theft/loss is at the expense of the buyer, not the seller. Registered mail fulfilled its obligation. If a seller wants to go the extra step (not required by PP/Ebay) then he can also require delivery to a specific person and pay an extra postal fee.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
PP/eBay is supposed to wait until the seller receives the goods back before refunding, no?
Normally the seller makes the refund on a return after receiving the goods. If seller fails to make refund in timely manner, PP/Ebay verify proof of return and then make the refund from seller's funds. In rare cases they will not require a return (counterfeit coin claim).
If seller claims that item returned is not what was sent, then what?
Then you're back to the "he said, she said" scenario where PP/Ebay makes a decision on who to believe.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
I believe you can use the flat rate envelope but only the cardboard/paper one, not the bubble wrap one. No bubble envelopes (including paper ones) can be sent registered. Since the PO is required to put their counter stamp in numerous locations on the actual package they require all exterior packaging materials, including the tape, to be a paper product so, as you point out, their counter stamp ink does not smear. The reason they do not allow paper bubble wrap envelopes is because they want to be able to apply their stamp to a hard, not soft, surface.
For those that do not know, you cannot buy and print registered mail services on line. They have to be purchased at a USPS counter.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
@amwldcoin said:
Curious what your response would be if you had a $5000 package stolen by the Post Office! Yes I did and thankfully it was registered and insured! I agree with self insuring lessor priced items....but really... you ship high dollar items and self insure? No offense...to each his own...but that seems pretty dumb to me!
@ErrorsOnCoins said:
LMAO about packages lost in the mail. Do the math. How much have you paid in insurance costs vs how many (value of) packages are lost in the mail.
There is a reason that every insurance guy I know has some really nice toys. Most insurance is NOT worth it IMO.
I wonder if the package was stolen at the post office BECAUSE it was registered and had valuables inside.
Just doesn't happen. It is under lock and key at all times.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
LOL, good luck with that. Buyers on eBay tend to become pretty antsy when a 3K item shows no movement for a couple of days, whether you are upfront or not.
Insurance on a $3K express package almost doubles your cost over registered.
I never said it was cheaper to ship otherwise, just that registered mail typically is slower.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
After post office says delivered (to the address) any subsequent theft/loss is at the expense of the buyer, not the seller. Registered mail fulfilled its obligation. If a seller wants to go the extra step (not required by PP/Ebay) then he can also require delivery to a specific person and pay an extra postal fee.
Understood, but my point is that RM as most people use it is not 100% guaranteed against loss or more likely theft.
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
I believe you can use the flat rate envelope but only the cardboard/paper one, not the bubble wrap one. No bubble envelopes (including paper ones) can be sent registered. Since the PO is required to put their counter stamp in numerous locations on the actual package they require all exterior packaging materials, including the tape, to be a paper product so, as you point out, their counter stamp ink does not smear. The reason they do not allow paper bubble wrap envelopes is because they want to be able to apply their stamp to a hard, not soft, surface.
For those that do not know, you cannot buy and print registered mail services on line. They have to be purchased at a USPS counter.
I've never gotten a registered flat rate envelope unless someone cover the whole thing with brown paper tape. I sent a request to USPS customer service. I'll post a reply.
@amwldcoin said:
Curious what your response would be if you had a $5000 package stolen by the Post Office! Yes I did and thankfully it was registered and insured! I agree with self insuring lessor priced items....but really... you ship high dollar items and self insure? No offense...to each his own...but that seems pretty dumb to me!
@ErrorsOnCoins said:
LMAO about packages lost in the mail. Do the math. How much have you paid in insurance costs vs how many (value of) packages are lost in the mail.
There is a reason that every insurance guy I know has some really nice toys. Most insurance is NOT worth it IMO.
I wonder if the package was stolen at the post office BECAUSE it was registered and had valuables inside.
Just doesn't happen. It is under lock and key at all times.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
@mustangmanbob said:
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
LOL, good luck with that. Buyers on eBay tend to become pretty antsy when a 3K item shows no movement for a couple of days, whether you are upfront or not.
Insurance on a $3K express package almost doubles your cost over registered.
I never said it was cheaper to ship otherwise, just that registered mail typically is slower.
I know you didn't. My answer was sort of rhetorical. Frankly, I hate it when people waste good money [esp. mine] on expensive shipping.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
After post office says delivered (to the address) any subsequent theft/loss is at the expense of the buyer, not the seller. Registered mail fulfilled its obligation. If a seller wants to go the extra step (not required by PP/Ebay) then he can also require delivery to a specific person and pay an extra postal fee.
Understood, but my point is that RM as most people use it is not 100% guaranteed against loss or more likely theft.
USPS protection against theft or loss no longer applies once it is signed for at the shipping address. If stolen or lost after that point it is not a USPS matter. This basic rule applies to any kind of shipment.
Another method a scammer can use is to have an item forwarded. Since tracking will show that delivery was made to an address that differs from the address PP required you to ship to, the seller can make a not received claim. If delivery takes place at a different location than the address PP requires you to ship to then PP has a good case not to honor seller protection. A seller can protect himself by including the words "Return Services Requested" on the shipment right under his return address. USPS changed to these words a few years back to replace the old "do not forward." This statement on your package ensures the package gets returned to the seller and does not get forwarded to an address that differs from the PP required shipping address that the item was addressed to.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
After post office says delivered (to the address) any subsequent theft/loss is at the expense of the buyer, not the seller. Registered mail fulfilled its obligation. If a seller wants to go the extra step (not required by PP/Ebay) then he can also require delivery to a specific person and pay an extra postal fee.
Understood, but my point is that RM as most people use it is not 100% guaranteed against loss or more likely theft.
USPS protection against theft or loss no longer applies once it is signed for at the shipping address. If stolen or lost after that point it is not a USPS matter. This basic rule applies to any kind of shipment.
Another method a scammer can use is to have an item forwarded. Since tracking will show that delivery was made to an address that differs from the address PP required you to ship to, the seller can make a not received claim. If delivery takes place at a different location than the address PP requires you to ship to then PP has a good case not to honor seller protection. A seller can protect himself by including the words "Return Services Requested" on the shipment right under his return address. USPS changed to these words a few years back to replace the old "do not forward." This statement on your package ensures the package gets returned to the seller and does not get forwarded to an address that differs from the PP required shipping address that the item was addressed to.
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Why would PP/eBay not honor their guarantee if delivery redirect was made AFTER the seller shipped? That's just dumb and irresponsible on their part and only encourages more dishonesty. Buyers/recipients should be required to notify eBay/PP if any changes to delivery are made, otherwise they're SOL.
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
Then why do some RM packages never get delivered?
because USPS covered their guarantee and reimbursed the shipper for the loss.
Just realized you are using guarantee and insurance as two different things. I'm not. There are no guarantees in life but there is insurance.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
If you are afraid of selling coins on ebay then there is probably no venue that you will be happy with, except face to face.
I self insure on anything I can get away with (wife makes me add if it's above a grand or so). I've sold thousands of coins on ebay and always self insure except for the biggest $$ amounts. I've saved thousands of dollars by self insuring. My wife did not like it at first but I put the insurance money I would have paid in an envelope and now that I have shown her the thickness of the envelope she agrees. I can now afford to self insure.
bob
Registry: CC lowballs (boblindstrom), bobinvegas1989@yahoo.com
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
Then why do some RM packages never get delivered?
because USPS covered their guarantee and reimbursed the shipper for the loss.
Just realized you are using guarantee and insurance as two different things. I'm not. There are no guarantees in life but there is insurance.
RM is the safest most reliable [other than self-delivery] way to ship items of value or items that are irreplaceable, but it's not infallible.
" All high dollar items are subject to theft by a dishonest postal employee"
Exactly my point.
ebay bubble packaging with no insurance is practically invisible to the post office employee who steals high ticket items.
What do you mean by "ebay bubble packaging"?
I am leary of using boxes or labels that have the ebay logo - I feel safer with plain Priority Bubble mailers (over the cardboard). You can hardly break into those things unless u are using a razor or knife. The cardboard is thin and tears. I have started taping all seams. I may start 'whiting' out the eBay logo on my postage labels. I don't want them on there. And I don't know why eBay makes you use eBay labels instead of just being able to use regular Paypal labels. I prefer regular PP over eBay process, tho the mechanics are about the same. I trust 'just' Paypal over anything eBay related and don't like them controlling my labeling. For cheaper things, I just like the 4x8 brown bubble mailers. You don't want to get 'too' small because then there is a chance it could get lost. And u have to be careful not to have sticky tape outside up or it could get 'attached' to something else. Packing packages is an art. Not always pretty, but it works.
@derryb said:
What is important here is that those that use USPS clearly understand their options and the consequences of their choices.
Facts are:
-Registered mail (insurance is always included in fee) is more secure as it moves through the delivery system. It requires postal employee signatures at each hand-off. It also requires special packaging.
-Self insurance (no insurance) means person shipping eats any loss, Paypal and Ebay will not protect the person shipping.
-At approx. $700 it s cheaper to ship registered vs. insured regular priority or regular first class.
-Two types of registered: Registered priority and Registered first class for items under 13 ozs. They both move at the same pace but registered first class is cheaper if you qualify for it.
-USPS will pay no more than $15 on a postal claim involving bullion unless it is shipped registered where they cover the market value. There is no clear USPS definition of "bullion."
To insure or not to insure. . .
How do you know if you qualify for First Class over Prio for Registered? What are the requirements.
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
I believe you can use the flat rate envelope but only the cardboard/paper one, not the bubble wrap one. No bubble envelopes (including paper ones) can be sent registered. Since the PO is required to put their counter stamp in numerous locations on the actual package they require all exterior packaging materials, including the tape, to be a paper product so, as you point out, their counter stamp ink does not smear. The reason they do not allow paper bubble wrap envelopes is because they want to be able to apply their stamp to a hard, not soft, surface.
For those that do not know, you cannot buy and print registered mail services on line. They have to be purchased at a USPS counter.
I've never gotten a registered flat rate envelope unless someone cover the whole thing with brown paper tape. I sent a request to USPS customer service. I'll post a reply.
You also can't print first class from what I have found.
As far as the brown paper/brown tape. They only require the 'seams' to be covered in brown tape now, and you can use a Prio envelope for RM. I just did it twice, they covered the end of Prio bubble mailer with their brown tape only.
As far as smearing ink - I print my labels on plain paper - no smear.
You also can't print first class from what I have found.
As far as the brown paper/brown tape. They only require the 'seams' to be covered in brown tape now, and you can use a Prio envelope for RM. I just did it twice, they covered the end of Prio bubble mailer with their brown tape only.
As far as smearing ink - I print my labels on plain paper - no smear.
You can print first class labels, you cannot print your own registered first class labels.
The ink smearing is in reference to the postal clerk's stamp that has to be applied over the paper tape. This is why they require paper tape.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
Then why do some RM packages never get delivered?
because USPS covered their guarantee and reimbursed the shipper for the loss.
Just realized you are using guarantee and insurance as two different things. I'm not. There are no guarantees in life but there is insurance.
I often underinsure packages on purpose if using RM since I have a lot of faith in RM. If something goes wrong then I'm SOL. They offer insurance to make you whole if they mess up. I suppose insurance is a guarantee that you'll get something, but I expect most people will want the delivery that they pay for.
You also can't print first class from what I have found.
As far as the brown paper/brown tape. They only require the 'seams' to be covered in brown tape now, and you can use a Prio envelope for RM. I just did it twice, they covered the end of Prio bubble mailer with their brown tape only.
As far as smearing ink - I print my labels on plain paper - no smear.
You can print first class labels, you cannot print your own registered first class labels.
The ink smearing is in reference to the postal clerk's stamp that has to be applied over the paper tape. This is why they require paper tape.
Never heard of registered labels. Used to be RM had to be hand addressed, but I've gotten many RM packages with printed labels. Only difference is the red registered sticker that they put on it and they add the RM fee. You can print a label [you might need to use the peel off paper] but you still have to present it at the window in order to get it sent registered.
If you ship a lot, you can pick up a separate insurance policy and it is much cheaper. You have to balance the risk and determine how much exposure you are willing to cover yourself. Insurance can be bought by the currier but they tend to hose you on the rates, If you have to use them, don't cover more then your cost. It also depends on address. know the geographic. Look up house value etc. Higher the value, lower the risk, IMHO.
You also can't print first class from what I have found.
As far as the brown paper/brown tape. They only require the 'seams' to be covered in brown tape now, and you can use a Prio envelope for RM. I just did it twice, they covered the end of Prio bubble mailer with their brown tape only.
As far as smearing ink - I print my labels on plain paper - no smear.
You can print first class labels, you cannot print your own registered first class labels.
The ink smearing is in reference to the postal clerk's stamp that has to be applied over the paper tape. This is why they require paper tape.
Never heard of registered labels. Used to be RM had to be hand addressed, but I've gotten many RM packages with printed labels. Only difference is the red registered sticker that they put on it and they add the RM fee. You can print a label [you might need to use the peel off paper] but you still have to present it at the window in order to get it sent registered.
to clarify, you cannot print your own registered postage paid shipping label. Postage has to be paid at the USPS counter. Note that you can use a priority mail address sticker/label for registered as long as you are paying the registered priority fee (at the counter) for that registered item.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Nothing like a large box with a boatload of stamps on them. Include signature confirmation. The new member might even post the package here. One can hope. I don't think you will get scammed, but you have his mailing address, name, and hopefully his number in order to "lock in" a relationship, of sorts. In the end, the answer is YES. You could get scammed. It's possible, despite every precaution.
I would like to hear from anybody who has had Ebay/Paypal side with them on a sale where you know the buyer scammed you.
In the last year or so I have had several " buyers " either swap coins or claim the item I sent was not the item they purchased. In one instance the buyer purchased an item from me and then claimed I sent him a broken watch instead of the coin. Guess what I'm out 300 bucks with no recourse. The only person Paypal protects is the buyer. I even had one sale reversed after the 90 day limit for filing a claim. The buyer said his card was used without Her permission. They took my money right out of my account. I then tried to cancel my paypal account, guess what it take 90 days to accomplish that.
Meanwhile you still on the hook...
Past transactions with: Lordmarcovan, WTCG, YogiBerraFan, Phoenin21, LindeDad, Coll3ctor, blue594, robkoll, Mike Dixon, BloodMan, Flakthat and others.
@BobSav said:
The only person Paypal protects is the buyer. I even had one sale reversed after the 90 day limit for filing a claim. The buyer said his card was used without Her permission. They took my money right out of my account. I then tried to cancel my paypal account, guess what it take 90 days to accomplish that.
You should close the bank account (or arrange a very low balance) and cancel the credit card tied to the PP account to keep disputed funds out of the hands of PP. Never leave money in your PP account, transfer to bank account.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
You can get scammed on any eBay sale or purchase. If the value of item is more than you feel comfortable with, then you should use a different venue for items of that value.
If the buyer is PAYPAL verified, you ship to their PAYPAL address, and have signature confirmation - PAYPAL should cover you.
Comments
The cost of registered and insured, especially for a one time big item sale, is worth the peace of mind, for a seller that is not shipping day in and day out.
I am not sure if the buyer's ebay feedback is posted, but I, selling on ebay for 15+ years, and selling $100 K a year for many years, for big ticket items, I DO insure them. I build the cost into my shipping fee, so it does not "cost" me anything, as the buyer has "paid" for it, and if I did not insure it, then I am "ripping off" the buyer.
Again, read and reread the paypal and ebay requirements for a shipment over $750 and ensure you follow them.
Very seldom does a package have contents missing or damaged, but for the 1 high value kind type things , the insurance cost is worth the peace of mind.
The only drawback to using registered is that you will likely get dinged for slow shipping.
That and possibly having your money hung up in escrow when an impatient buyer files an INR claim.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
This is the only part of your statement I disagree with. When I buy a coin, I factor in all costs, including shipping. So I would pay $100 for a coin whether it was $100 with free shipping, or $90 with $10 shipping. So the cheaper you can ship your items, the better. But I agree with the rest.
I know this was tongue-in-cheek. But all kidding aside it is possible to self-insure your automobiles (at least in some states). Typically it requires a large surety bond or deposit with the DMV or the Dept of Insurance.
If you had Bill Gates' money would you buy insurance as protection against a loss? (Maybe...is he a bad driver?)
Insurance of any kind is, on the whole, a money loser for policy owners and profitable for insurance companies. Otherwise there would be no insurance business. Pretty simple.
If you can't stand the possibility of a loss you buy insurance even though it is a lousy bet.
Lance.
So basically, if you decide to sell it and ship it, just let us know how long the whole process of getting scammed takes...
LOL, I got this email from PayPal overnight ....
Dear christopher frank,
We received notice from the buyer's financial institution that Case ID xxxxxxx has been decided in the buyer's favor. However, because you’re a valued customer, we’re not debiting your PayPal account for the disputed amount.
Here are the case details:
Buyer's name: xxxx
Buyer's email: xxxxxxx
Buyer's transaction ID:xxxxxxxxx
Your transaction ID:xxxxxxx
Transaction date: September 12, 2017
Transaction amount: $749.95 USD
Disputed amount: $749.95 USD
Thank you for your patience during this process. We appreciate your business.
You can find additional information and tips about buying and selling safely at our Business Resource Center. After you log in to your PayPal account, click Tools, and then click Business Resource Center under "Grow your business."
Sincerely,
PayPal
Please do not reply to this email. To get in touch with us, click Help & Contact.
..........................................
And here is the Unique stolen coin from the above fraud. Keep an eye out for it ....
I usually insure part of the value, for example if the coin is 5000 I would insurance 2k. Any coin under one k I would not insure it. for coins over 2k I use express mail. It used to be cheaper for insurance when you use express mail but that is not the case any more.
What do you mean by "ebay bubble packaging"?
I am leary of using boxes or labels that have the ebay logo - I feel safer with plain Priority Bubble mailers (over the cardboard). You can hardly break into those things unless u are using a razor or knife. The cardboard is thin and tears. I have started taping all seams. I may start 'whiting' out the eBay logo on my postage labels. I don't want them on there. And I don't know why eBay makes you use eBay labels instead of just being able to use regular Paypal labels. I prefer regular PP over eBay process, tho the mechanics are about the same. I trust 'just' Paypal over anything eBay related and don't like them controlling my labeling. For cheaper things, I just like the 4x8 brown bubble mailers. You don't want to get 'too' small because then there is a chance it could get lost. And u have to be careful not to have sticky tape outside up or it could get 'attached' to something else. Packing packages is an art. Not always pretty, but it works.
How do you know if you qualify for First Class over Prio for Registered? What are the requirements.
Not if you are up front and communicate with Buyer.
Stuff with chances of about zero do occur. Registered is the way to go on a coin of that value.
Just doesn't happen. It is under lock and key at all times.
Yes he can scam. If he requests a return and claims it’s not right. Then mails back a newspaper weighing about the same as original package. Not worth the risk.
Video tape it and don’t open any returns without video taping. Send insured signature required . Make sure to make contact prior to shipping. All advice above is good advice. And don’t allow return outside the system. They will make you whole on fraud if they indicate ok to ship. Good luck.
Best place to buy !
Bronze Associate member
You could google the guy, see if he has a good or bad record is a responsible citizen etc.. I haven't done too many transactions over $2K on ebay to strangers. I've done a few high value transactions through their global shipping which is a fraud proof system as long as it gets to their processing hub in KY.
LOL, good luck with that. Buyers on eBay tend to become pretty antsy when a 3K item shows no movement for a couple of days, whether you are upfront or not.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
It can still be stolen. Also, anyone at the recipient's address can sign for it [carrier is supposed to ask for ID] UNLESS you pay EXTRA for restricted delivery to the addressee only.
PP/eBay is supposed to wait until the seller receives the goods back before refunding, no?
Ebay/PP proof of delivery requirement only requires proof of delivery to the address.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Normally the seller makes the refund on a return after receiving the goods. If seller fails to make refund in timely manner, PP/Ebay verify proof of return and then make the refund from seller's funds. In rare cases they will not require a return (counterfeit coin claim).
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
If I print labels via PP, I always trim off the PP stuff on the bottom; why give them free advertising? Priority vs first class is determined by weight, anything over 13 ounces goes priority. Depending upon weight you might be better using flat rate or regional rate boxes. You can't use flat rate envelopes because the ink smears. Also, you're not supposed to cover up the words flat rate.
Insurance on a $3K express package almost doubles your cost over registered.
I was addressing the security [or lack thereof of RM] part, not what eBay/PP require.
If seller claims that item returned is not what was sent, then what?
After post office says delivered (to the address) any subsequent theft/loss is at the expense of the buyer, not the seller. Registered mail fulfilled its obligation. If a seller wants to go the extra step (not required by PP/Ebay) then he can also require delivery to a specific person and pay an extra postal fee.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Then you're back to the "he said, she said" scenario where PP/Ebay makes a decision on who to believe.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
You're about to ?
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
I believe you can use the flat rate envelope but only the cardboard/paper one, not the bubble wrap one. No bubble envelopes (including paper ones) can be sent registered. Since the PO is required to put their counter stamp in numerous locations on the actual package they require all exterior packaging materials, including the tape, to be a paper product so, as you point out, their counter stamp ink does not smear. The reason they do not allow paper bubble wrap envelopes is because they want to be able to apply their stamp to a hard, not soft, surface.
For those that do not know, you cannot buy and print registered mail services on line. They have to be purchased at a USPS counter.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Agreed, but it's not the postal employee.
I never said it was cheaper to ship otherwise, just that registered mail typically is slower.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
Understood, but my point is that RM as most people use it is not 100% guaranteed against loss or more likely theft.
I've never gotten a registered flat rate envelope unless someone cover the whole thing with brown paper tape. I sent a request to USPS customer service. I'll post a reply.
Could be tho.
I know you didn't. My answer was sort of rhetorical. Frankly, I hate it when people waste good money [esp. mine] on expensive shipping.
USPS protection against theft or loss no longer applies once it is signed for at the shipping address. If stolen or lost after that point it is not a USPS matter. This basic rule applies to any kind of shipment.
Another method a scammer can use is to have an item forwarded. Since tracking will show that delivery was made to an address that differs from the address PP required you to ship to, the seller can make a not received claim. If delivery takes place at a different location than the address PP requires you to ship to then PP has a good case not to honor seller protection. A seller can protect himself by including the words "Return Services Requested" on the shipment right under his return address. USPS changed to these words a few years back to replace the old "do not forward." This statement on your package ensures the package gets returned to the seller and does not get forwarded to an address that differs from the PP required shipping address that the item was addressed to.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
I'm not discussing claims or USPS responsibility, only that RM is not 100% absolutely guaranteed against theft or loss.
Why would PP/eBay not honor their guarantee if delivery redirect was made AFTER the seller shipped? That's just dumb and irresponsible on their part and only encourages more dishonesty. Buyers/recipients should be required to notify eBay/PP if any changes to delivery are made, otherwise they're SOL.
Registered is 100% absolutely guaranteed by USPS against theft or loss while the package is in their system. Once delivered it is no longer a registered shipment, it is private property.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Then why do some RM packages never get delivered?
because USPS covered their guarantee and reimbursed the shipper for the loss.
Just realized you are using guarantee and insurance as two different things. I'm not. There are no guarantees in life but there is insurance.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
If you are afraid of selling coins on ebay then there is probably no venue that you will be happy with, except face to face.
I self insure on anything I can get away with (wife makes me add if it's above a grand or so). I've sold thousands of coins on ebay and always self insure except for the biggest $$ amounts. I've saved thousands of dollars by self insuring. My wife did not like it at first but I put the insurance money I would have paid in an envelope and now that I have shown her the thickness of the envelope she agrees. I can now afford to self insure.
bob
RM is the safest most reliable [other than self-delivery] way to ship items of value or items that are irreplaceable, but it's not infallible.
You also can't print first class from what I have found.
As far as the brown paper/brown tape. They only require the 'seams' to be covered in brown tape now, and you can use a Prio envelope for RM. I just did it twice, they covered the end of Prio bubble mailer with their brown tape only.
As far as smearing ink - I print my labels on plain paper - no smear.
You can print first class labels, you cannot print your own registered first class labels.
The ink smearing is in reference to the postal clerk's stamp that has to be applied over the paper tape. This is why they require paper tape.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
I often underinsure packages on purpose if using RM since I have a lot of faith in RM. If something goes wrong then I'm SOL. They offer insurance to make you whole if they mess up. I suppose insurance is a guarantee that you'll get something, but I expect most people will want the delivery that they pay for.
Never heard of registered labels. Used to be RM had to be hand addressed, but I've gotten many RM packages with printed labels. Only difference is the red registered sticker that they put on it and they add the RM fee. You can print a label [you might need to use the peel off paper] but you still have to present it at the window in order to get it sent registered.
If you ship a lot, you can pick up a separate insurance policy and it is much cheaper. You have to balance the risk and determine how much exposure you are willing to cover yourself. Insurance can be bought by the currier but they tend to hose you on the rates, If you have to use them, don't cover more then your cost. It also depends on address. know the geographic. Look up house value etc. Higher the value, lower the risk, IMHO.
Best place to buy !
Bronze Associate member
to clarify, you cannot print your own registered postage paid shipping label. Postage has to be paid at the USPS counter. Note that you can use a priority mail address sticker/label for registered as long as you are paying the registered priority fee (at the counter) for that registered item.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
Nothing like a large box with a boatload of stamps on them. Include signature confirmation. The new member might even post the package here. One can hope. I don't think you will get scammed, but you have his mailing address, name, and hopefully his number in order to "lock in" a relationship, of sorts. In the end, the answer is YES. You could get scammed. It's possible, despite every precaution.
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
I would like to hear from anybody who has had Ebay/Paypal side with them on a sale where you know the buyer scammed you.
In the last year or so I have had several " buyers " either swap coins or claim the item I sent was not the item they purchased. In one instance the buyer purchased an item from me and then claimed I sent him a broken watch instead of the coin. Guess what I'm out 300 bucks with no recourse. The only person Paypal protects is the buyer. I even had one sale reversed after the 90 day limit for filing a claim. The buyer said his card was used without Her permission. They took my money right out of my account. I then tried to cancel my paypal account, guess what it take 90 days to accomplish that.
Meanwhile you still on the hook...
Lordmarcovan, WTCG, YogiBerraFan, Phoenin21, LindeDad, Coll3ctor, blue594, robkoll, Mike Dixon, BloodMan, Flakthat and others.
You should close the bank account (or arrange a very low balance) and cancel the credit card tied to the PP account to keep disputed funds out of the hands of PP. Never leave money in your PP account, transfer to bank account.
No Way Out: Stimulus and Money Printing Are the Only Path Left
You can get scammed on any eBay sale or purchase. If the value of item is more than you feel comfortable with, then you should use a different venue for items of that value.
If the buyer is PAYPAL verified, you ship to their PAYPAL address, and have signature confirmation - PAYPAL should cover you.