Buying a ski…Payment method?

[123hi]

I’m considering buying a ski and having it shipped. I would like to use PayPal to pay for it, but it seems like a lot of sellers are not willing to use 3rd party payment processors anymore. Is there a safe or recommended method these days? Is anyone using a wire transfer or cashiers check? Both of those options concern me a little in a private party to private party transaction. However, they are the only other methods I am aware of. Thanks

 

[KMN]

This is kind of a mixed bag. There is no great way to transfer money. Paypal either has fees or could be trouble for the buyer or the seller. Bank transfers are pretty much like paypal gift, but typically you'll pay $25-$50 per transaction. Venmo is similar to paypal. Cash app, similar.

Bottom line is you need to establish some kind of relationship and accountability with your seller/buyer. I've had many great transactions, got ripped off pretty good on one.

There has got to be a 3rd party escrow business out there, but I'm not too familiar with that. I suppose Paypal goods and services is pretty close to that.

Best option, in person, cash.

 

[sturat]

If you don't want to use PayPal you should thoroughly trust the person you are paying With any other method.

 

[Quinc]

I have had good luck with having the uship shipper guys look over the item and send pictures of it then confirming its loaded onto the truck before sending over paypal. Not 100% but better then nothing.

 

[Sparkplug]

If they aren't willing to do paypal with you covering the fees. Then walk away. Plenty of other deals out there. It's not worth the risk. PayPal will stand behind your purchase if anything goes wrong. The same for the seller. No reason to not accept it other than money. Immediate red flag for me.

 

[Half flip95]

fly out there and hand them cash after you’ve inspected / water tested the ski