???Safely Trading Gear Between Private Parties???

I for one will always vote to keep the forums politics free.  And that means both/all sides!

I did a trade on USAM last year. The other party and I exchanged several emails, establishing trust and a way for us both to feel comfortable. We talked about packing, shipping, and insurance. Then we exchanged photos of our gear packed and labeled. Finally we exchanged receipts showing tracking numbers. 

It wasn't as complicated as it sounds. I would propose something and he would either agree or suggest an alternative. It was all done over three days. Both of us were happy with the outcome. 

I’m not sure how the situation has changed since selling used audio used to happen through newspaper classifieds. That’s how I bought and sold my gear in the 1970’s and 1980’s. One has to use common sense.  I look at something like PayPal as being like exchanging cash like in those earlier times. Currently, I insist in talking on the phone with the potential party to see if they are knowledgeable and an enthusiast. If not, I pass.