How long do you wait for a check to clear

If it's a USA bank, search for a local branch, go to the manager and have it cleared on the spot via computer.

Walk out with cash or bank certified check, either way you can get instant credit in your own account.

I've had success with Wells Fargo, Bank of America and a couple of others. I think it was Chase that refused unless I also had an account.

It's worth a try, saves at least a week.

Wire transfer is the only safe way according to my bank. Certified and personal checks can both be stopped in 30 days. My bank said send Certified for payments and I can stop payment with a phone call. If the person wants the gear, send back the check and ask for the bank transfer. You have too much to risk and not worth the hastle.

There was a law passed some years ago that when a check is presented to a bank it is processed immediately, it should clear the next day, mine does. No more check floating for the floaters.

That's exactly right. Go to the bank the check is written on and cash it. Why would a seller agree to a personal check in the first place. Sellers should at least require a Cashier's Check or Money Order, but the risk is equally on both sides in these transactions. I always get a little nervous when FedEx delivers my Cashier's Check and the communication suddenly stops. Fortunately I haven't been burned yet.

As a non-paypal person, 10 business days is the answer, but I ask for real email and verifiable info. With me, I give my law firm email so people can see who I am and also give all my contact info. I would expect the same. Finally, I tell people to hold my check as long as they want. There are laws governing time to accept or refuse a check, but the good laws only apply to instate banks. In general, banks screw you over with impunity.