If you are a seller on the Internet, represent pieces as accurately as you can and point out all flaws, give thorough descriptions, and certainly don't think that a photo speaks for itself. Try to put yourself in the buyer's position. Answer any and all questions quickly and, most importantly, offer the right to return for any reason. I know this is a sore point for many sellers, but if you present the piece honestly and point out all aspects of it, you should have very few returns. It will always increase your standing among the best sellers on these auction Websites.
Seller Policies
Read the seller's rules and regulations very carefully. If they have more concerns about how they sell, and lists of particular rules about returns, payment, and the lack of responsibility if not completely satisfied, this is red flag #3. Don't get involved. Find out what the seller's return policies are, if any. If you are not satisfied with the piece, will you get your money back? If you are not happy with any aspect of the seller's rules and regulations, back off. Don't put yourself at risk. No piece is worth being taken by a scam. Remember, every seller on the Internet makes up his or her own set of rules and can change them at any time. Never assume that all sellers have the same policies. Don't expect any help from the online auction service itself. For the most part, you and the seller are on your own. Once the seller has your money, it is usually a one-sided battle, and you lose.
Packing and Shipping
When you have won an item and have paid, your next problem is receiving the piece safely. Packing and shipping as well as the charges for it are often a big problem, especially for the amateur dealer who has no idea of how to sell an item, much less pack it properly so you receive it with no damage. It is important to understand that packing and shipping are two completely different things.
Packing refers to the materials needed to mail an item, including boxes, bubble wrap, peanuts, and tape. Shipping refers to postage, the cost of sending the box to you. Packing material, especially the proper material, costs money. Don't expect the seller to supply this for free. You pay for packaging. That's part of the added expense of doing business on the Web. And, if you are lucky enough to get a refund for a returned piece, don't expect it to include packaging and shipping costs. Chalk it up again to expenses on the Web. It is part of the price of buying without benefit of direct contact. If the piece is very important to you and you have doubts about the seller's ability to pack and ship it safely, you can always instruct them to use a pack and ship service that you can pay for separately. It will probably cost more, but in some cases safety outweighs cost.