Shipping prices and buyers...

I don't have a lot of experience with this, but I think PerfectImage and Angella100 might be right. The sender has a much clearer idea of what is necessary packaging. The reciever may be clueless and even if that's not the case has little control over the packaging. In a retail mail order purchase, one would expect appropriate packaging and expect it to be built into the cost, it's only logical. I believe that the sender is the insured party. The packaging and insurance should be built into the price. It's all part of the cost of doing business. It might be reasonable to advertise a lower cost for pick up only.

Thanks to all for chiming in, appreciate your inputs. I have not submitted this matter for formal arbitration with AudioGon as I'm trying to work through the issues with the buyer. I woudln't be surprised if it this matter does end up in arbitration for resolution. The item left me in perfect cosmetic and operational condition, shipped in it's original box and via a method the buyer approved of. It is the buyer's responsiblity to select carrier and any additional packaging to make sure his/her new purchase arrives safely. I always suggest methods such as double boxing to avoid problems but at the end of the day it's not my decision nor is it up to me to absorb additional expense. I would be inclined to pay for double boxing etc. if the buyer meets my asking price. I submitted a claim and once it's settled the buyer will be reimbursed for repairs or refunded his money (depends on the settlement). This ordeal has cost me way too much time and money.

Angela: On a side note mail boxes ect is crazy in their prices. I try to get packing at places like job lot and free boxes at local businesses. If you must buy at least go to a uhaul place. They are a ton cheaper.

Perfectimage, thanks, I received had an email from another member suggesting something similar. great ideas! I'm all for saving money! -aj

As a frequent Seller, who knows there are problem Buyers at there, I vigorously disagree with those who think it is the Buyer's responsibility to pay for boxing and packing materials units that the Seller was too negligent to keep. It is the SELLER'S responsibility to provide proper packing and boxing. If you threw it out, that's your problem and expense; not the Buyer's.

Something else that makes my blood boil is Sellers who agree to ship UPS, and then are too lazy to have UPS pick up, or take to the customer counter themselves, and go to MailBoxes, etc., and then expect the Buyer to pay DOUBLE what the regular UPS rate is.

I NEVER do any of the above to a Buyer; rather, I will go out of my way to take the item to the shipper, because, after all, I'm the one trying to sell an item. If you want to sell, take the responsibilities that go along with it. Otherwise, sell local only.