Has buying and/or selling audio gear changed?


Hi Everyone, I've been a longtime observer on Audiogon but this is my first post.  I recently ran into a situation that was new to me as I've recently sold some of my gear and I'm in the process of replacing it.  I've used the normal websites (Audiogon, US Audiomart, TMR, etc) and those transactions have been smooth without any issues.  I normally use PP Goods and Services as well as insurance with shipping.  However, I recently was on a website of a well-known individual in the industry who has a piece of equipment that was reasonable priced.  No, it wasn't a "too good to be true" price but was in the ballpark of what one would expect.  As we were ready to finalize the sale, he informed me that he only does PayPal F&F and he won't insure the product for shipping stating this is now the industry standard and it was non-negotiable.  Is this the new standard and all my other recent transactions were non-typical because I used PP Goods & Services and made sure the shipping had insurance to try and provide some protection?  I don't live close enough to buy the gear in person and I've bought and sold across the US and never had a problem but always used Goods and Services for peace of mind for the unexpected issue or problem.  For the record, I'm only interested in conversation that is related to what the industry standard is, not the individual involved here.  Let me know your thoughts.      

128x128listenup23

1st Post, alrighty then,

You have clues not to buy from that seller. I simply do not like giving money to someone I don’t trust or like. IF unique, well, how to get it?

I suggest you offer to pay the extra (3%?) for the PayPal Goods and Services fee.

AND, If seller buys insurance on your behalf (again, you pay), be aware, the insurance is in seller’s name, you have to take damaged item to agent’s local office, they have to agree damaged, then seller has to make the claim, be successful, then give you the refund.

 

..........................

USP Pack and Ship

One option for anything, (and if you buy from someone like this) is to use UPS Pack and Ship. I’ve used it a few times successfully. You do not pay seller any shipping cost.

Using seller’s zip code, find UPS Pack and Ship store nearest him (all locations are not pack and ship). You get size and weight from the seller (or online search). You call UPS, get estimate for them to receive unboxed item(s), box, ship, they are responsible for any damage.

Next: seller simply drops unboxed item(s) at the designated UPS Pack and Ship near them , with your name on it. You pay UPS directly, all is in your name. Seller walks away. Note: you want many prior photos showing condition of item(s).

UPS gives you final cost, a bit less or a bit more than the estimate based on their own weight/size measurements.

NOTE: for anything ’local pick up only’, this can be a way to get something, seller just drops it off for you. I’ve done that also, except one stubborn coot in Canada. (UPS Canada has Pack and Ship to USA)

Never ask the seller to buy insurance.  Now you're sharing in the responsibility for safe delivery.  It is fully the seller's responsibility.  Leave it that way.

Occasionally I see sellers saying that insurance is the buyer's option.  I usually respond that it it up to them.  If they are one of the sellers that states "not responsible for uninsured shipments" I generally move on.  not my job to try to set them right.  Also this statement indicates they've had problems before.

Jerry

I am one of those guys who hates to dicker over price.  If I want an item and I think the price is ok, I am interested.  If the price is high to cover lowballers, I am not interested.  So, I am a great buyer.  However, I will never, never purchase any item through friends or family or any manner that takes away my recourse for fraud, damage, or poor quality.  If they do not take PayPal full I will not talk to them.  60 years in retail has shown me to never trust anyone I do not have experience with.  Always cover all the bases.

Let me tell you.

the way I see it -- it really did, because I donno what F&F heck means and I also sold quite a few pieces of the gear and media here and around the web internationally and domestically.

Also is PP and PayPal the same or PP is the one you use to discharge urges??

If anyone knows any other new acronyms, please post in response.

THANKS!

 

@czarivey here is the info you requested:

PayPal is abbreviated PP

PayPal Friends and Family is abbreviated PP F&F or just F&F

PayPal Goods and Services is abbreviated PP G&S or just G&S

 

F&F is free and is giving or receiving funds among trusted parties. 

G&S costs usually 3 to 3.5% and is for giving or receiving funds as a business transaction which allows both parties to file a claim if something goes wrong.