Buying from other countries?


Does anyone know what is the safest way to buy from a private seller outside the USA. If he doesn't take Credit Card and doesn't have a Paypal account? Would Money Order or Bank Transfer be safe?

Thank You
aron
I've had great luck with my many dealings with people in Canada, probably because they aren't overseas.

I have had two overseas experiences early in my Audiogon days with the same fellow in Australia. It worked out very well both times. Shipping to me was faster than in many transactions I've had within the lower 48.

Oddly, it seems the US Postal Service does not have a relationship with Australia so you can't make US Postal money orders they'll accept. So in my first deal I made a cashiers check at my bank, and had to endure the long delivery time to him. With our next deal I found out that Western Union makes acceptable forms of payment to Australia, and that arrived very quickly to him.

Other than the money issue, I would follow what many people here have said especially checking feedback as you would do with anyone whether they live in the same town or on opposite sides of the country.
I got skrewed by Paypal to the tune of $2300+. No protection with Paypal. Avoid buying using Paypal.
I have had strange dealings with Canada for the last 8 years. I will not buy or sell.